Hopkinton, MA, November 7, 1997--Creative BioMolecules, Inc. (Nasdaq: CBMI) announced today the results of preclinical studies indicating that OP-1, a morphogenic protein involved in the development of the kidney, preserves kidney function in models of acute renal failure. The data demonstrate the critical role of OP-1 in enhancing filtration and blood flow and in reducing the inflammation caused by renal failure. The studies reported extend the Company's observations into a second model of renal failure that confirms earlier reported results. Creative BioMolecules and Biogen, Inc. (Nasdaq: BGEN) have formed a partnership to develop OP-1-based therapies for the treatment of chronic and acute renal failure.
In one of the recently completed preclinical studies, OP-1 was shown to improve the blood flow and filtration in kidneys suffering from norepinephrine induced renal ischemia. The administration of OP-1 reduced the accumulation of toxins in the blood stream and enhanced kidney recovery. The model used in this study is believed by the scientists involved to be a good representation of acute renal failure in humans.
In a second study, researchers demonstrated the ability of OP-1 to reduce the occurrence of certain markers of inflammation associated with ischemic injury. These data suggest one potential mechanism of action by which OP-1 may be exerting its protective effects on the kidney.
"We are encouraged by the promising data in these studies. They extend our initial observations into an additional model that shows consistent results with previously presented preclinical studies," commented Kuber Sampath, PhD, senior scientist with Creative BioMolecules. He continued, "OP-1 plays a fundamental role in the development of the kidney and may provide an important therapy for patients experiencing a loss of kidney function."
Creative BioMolecules has established a substantial proprietary position in the field of morphogenic proteins, including OP-1. In addition to the renal program with Biogen, Inc., the Company's morphogenic protein programs include a late stage development effort in orthopaedic reconstruction with Stryker Corporation and the development of proprietary new therapies for stroke and other neurological disorders.
This news release includes forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Factors which could cause actual results to differ from the Company's expectations include, without limitation, the course of the research and development programs, including the achievement of development milestones by the Company and completion of clinical testing, the impact of competitive products, the timely receipt of regulatory clearances required for clinical testing, manufacturing and marketing of products and the other risks and uncertainties detailed from time to time in the Company's periodic reports.
NOTE: Creative BioMolecules, Inc. makes available its latest news releases on the Internet at http://www.prnewswire.com or by facsimile by calling Fax On Demand at 1-800-758-5804, extension 212213.
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