TRENTON, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The biotechnology industry in New Jersey continues to demonstrate vitality, experiencing important increases in both the number of companies operating in the State and the number of employees working for those companies, according to the results of a survey conducted by Ernst & Young on behalf of BioNJ. The survey also confirmed data derived from previous BioNJ surveys which indicate that access to funding remains the primary challenge impacting the growth of early-stage companies.

The number of biotechnology companies with operations in New Jersey increased from more than 300 in a previous BioNJ study in July 2010 to more than 340 today, representing an increase of more than 13 percent, according to the study, Biotech in New Jersey: Finding Its Way Through Continuing Challenges.

The number of employees working directly at those New Jersey biotechnology companies also increased, rising 9.3 percent in the last two years, from approximately 15,000 employees in July 2010 to an estimated 16,400 in 2012.

The full report is available at: http://www.bionj.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/1207-1376406-BCNJ-survey-2012-8-1final.pdf

We are thrilled to see that the biotechnology industry in New Jersey continues to grow despite the ongoing issues facing the national and international economies, said Debbie Hart, President of BioNJ. Keeping with past reports, growth in New Jersey is coming from both within the State in the form of new company formations; spinouts from other companies and our universities; and from companies relocating to New Jersey from other states and other countries, with the latter taking on increasingly more prominence.

Hart said the growth is the result of several factors that include access to a variety of life science companies operating in New Jersey, a strong academic environment, an experienced and highly educated workforce and the long-term support of State government, which Governor Chris Christie and Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno and their Administration have built upon through several new initiatives.

Todays good news about the continued growth of New Jerseys biotechnology industry is not unexpected, said New Jersey Lt. Governor Kim Guadagno. Early on, this Administration identified life sciences as a critical driver of the Garden State economy, taking action to increase investment through comprehensive tax reform and enhancing financial incentives for these companies. More than ever, we remain firmly committed to the expansion of the industry to ensure New Jerseys well-earned reputation for life science excellence.

Study Highlights

Among the highlights the survey reports:

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NJ Biotechnology Industry Continues to Grow; Number of Companies and Employees Increasing

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Proskauer has expanded its biotechnology patent litigation capabilities with the addition of Mary S. Consalvi as a Partner in the firms Patent Law Group. Based in New York, Ms. Consalvi is the former president and general counsel of NetBio Systems, Inc., a leading provider of rapid DNA analysis solutions located in Waltham, MA.

We are very fortunate to have a lawyer of Marys caliber joining our team, said Brendan ORourke and Robert Cleary, Proskauer Partners and co-Chairs of the firms Litigation Department. Not only is she a top-notch litigator, but she also has a keen understanding of patent and other business issues facing biotech companies based on her strong corporate and industry background.

Ms. Consalvi brings more than 20 years of experience to Proskauer. Prior to her tenure at NetBio, Ms. Consalvi served as Vice President and Chief Intellectual Property Counsel at biotechnology company Transkaryotic Therapies. Before that she was a partner in private practice at Howrey Simon Arnold & White and Lyon & Lyon.

"Having known Mary since we were partners together at Lyon & Lyon, I can't think of anyone better suited to help grow and expandourbiotech capabilities," said James Shalek, Proskauer Partner and co-head of its Patent Law Group. "Her extensive experience with NetBio shows she can build a business, as was also the case at Lyon & Lyon, where as that firm's first female partner, she was instrumental in the development and expansion of its San Diego biotechnology practice."

In addition to her experience at NetBio, where she was responsible for all aspects of the companys financing, business development and corporate and legal affairs, Ms. Consalvi is a leading intellectual property litigator, focusing on patent, trademark, copyright and trade secret law. She has counseled clients on freedom to operate analyses, opinion work and issues of patent validity, infringement and new-product introductions and represented companies with government grants and contracts. She is also experienced in matters related to partnerships/technology transfers between businesses and research institutions, including the drafting and negotiating of agreements covering such transfers.

Marys patent experience is very complementary to our current portfolio of work, and we see significant opportunities to broaden our biotech offering to clients, said Steven Bauer, Proskauer Partner and co-head of its Patent Law Group. She is a proven litigator who can provide strategic patent prosecution and associated licensing and transactional work for start-up and emerging biotech companies, as well as for later stage companies needing to build a patent portfolio.

About Proskauer

Founded in 1875, Proskauer is a global law firm widely recognized for its leadership in a variety of legal services provided to clients worldwide from offices in Beijing, Boca Raton, Boston, Chicago, Hong Kong, London, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Newark, Paris, So Paulo and Washington, DC. Additional information about the firm, which has extensive experience in all areas of practice important to businesses, not-for-profit institutions and individuals, can be found at http://www.proskauer.com.

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Proskauer Broadens Biotech Patent Litigation Capabilities with New Partner in New York

Regional News of Sunday, 5 August 2012

Source: GNA

Professor Jonathan Padi Tetteh, a biotechnology expert has debunked public perception that Genetic Modified foods pose health risks to humans.

He said GM foods posed no health risk since extensive test was made on them before they were released.

GM foods, he noted, had been consumed in many countries including USA, Canada, Brazil, India and China for over 16 years without any reports of adverse effects.

Prof Tetteh was speaking at the monthly session meeting of Open Forum on Agricultural Biotechnology in Africa (OFAB) on the theme: Impact of biotechnology on Food production in Accra.

He said: Most of the imported foods into the country are GM foods, yet we eat and have no adverse effects and we speak against GMOs as if is the work of Satan.

God created man and impacted knowledge into man to discover and explore what He (God) created and that is what GMOs is all about. It is Gods creation and man only discovered it, he said.

On the environmental hazard of using biotechnology, Prof Tetteh said a toxin known as Bt toxin had been produced by the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis, which was toxic to insects of the Lepidoptera and Coleoptera families only, but not to man and other animals.

This toxin is formulated into insecticide, and used safely by organic farmers to control insects on their crops. The biotechnologist introduced the Bt gene from the bacteria, into crops now referred to as Bt crops. Bt crops can produce their own Bt toxin to protect themselves, he said.

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Biotechnology has no health and environmental hazards - Expert

Background:
Degradation of cellulose to glucose requires cooperative action of three enzymes, collectively known as cellulases. Endoglucanases randomly bind to cellulose surface and generate new chain ends by hydrolysing 1,4-beta-D-glycosidic bonds. Exoglucanases bind to free chain ends and hydrolyze glycosidic bonds in a processive manner releasing cellobiose units. Then, beta-glucosidases hydrolyze soluble cellobiose to glucose. Optimal synergistic action of these enzymes is essential for efficient digestion of cellulose. Experiments show that as hydrolysis proceeds and the cellulose substrate becomes more heterogeneous, the overall degradation slows down. As this catalysis occurs on crystalline cellulose surface, several factors contribute to overall hydrolysis of cellulose. Therefore, it requires development of spatial models of cellulose degradation that can capture effects such as enzyme crowding and surface heterogeneity that have been shown to lead to a reduction in hydrolysis rates.
Results:
We present a coarse-grained stochastic model for capturing the key events associated with the enzymatic degradation of cellulose at the mesoscopic level. This functional model accounts for the mobility and action of a single cellulase enzyme as well as the synergy of multiple endo- and exo-cellulases on a cellulose surface. The quantitative description of cellulose degradation is calculated on a spatial model by including free and bound states of both endo- and exo-cellulases with explicit reactive surface terms (e.g., hydrogen bond breaking, covalent bond cleavages) and corresponding reaction rates. The dynamical evolution of the system is simulated by including physical interactions between cellulases and cellulose.
Conclusions:
Our coarse-grained model reproduces qualitative behaviour of endoglucanases and exoglucanases by accounting for the spatial heterogeneity of the cellulose surface as well as other spatial factors such as enzyme crowding. Importantly, it captures the endo-exo synergism of cellulase enzyme cocktails. This model constitutes a critical step towards testing hypotheses and understanding approaches for maximizing synergy and substrate properties with a goal of cost effective enzymatic hydrolysis.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

Background:
Because many Miscanthus genotypes can be cultivated with relatively high productivity and carbohydrate content, Miscanthus has great potential as an energy crop that can support large scale biological production of biofuels.
Results:
In this study, batch hydrothermal pretreatment at 180 °C for 35 min followed by enzymatic hydrolysis was shown to give the highest total sugar yields for Miscanthus x giganteus cv. Illinois planted in Illinois. High throughput pretreatment at 180 °C for 35 min and 17.5 min followed by co-hydrolysis in a multi-well batch reactor identified two varieties out of 80 that had significantly higher sugar yields from pretreatment and enzymatic hydrolysis than others. The differences in performance were then related to compositions of the 80 varieties to provide insights into desirable traits for Miscanthus that enhance sugar yields.
Conclusions:
High throughput pretreatment and co-hydrolysis (HTPH) rapidly identified promising genotypes from a wide range of Miscanthus genotypes, including hybrids of Miscanthus sacchariflorus/M. sinensis and Miscanthus lutarioriparius, differentiating the more commercially promising species from the rest. The total glucan plus xylan content in Miscanthus appeared to influence both mass and theoretical yields, while lignin and ash contents did not have a predictable influence on performance.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -08/03/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) are both up 31 percent for the year, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Osiris Therapeutics, Inc. (OSIR) and Pluristem Therapeutics Inc. (PSTI).

Access to the full company reports can be found at: http://www.ParagonReport.com/OSIR http://www.ParagonReport.com/PSTI

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

Osiris Therapeutics is a leading stem cell company focused on developing and marketing products to treat medical conditions in the inflammatory, autoimmune, orthopedic and cardiovascular areas. Osiris' stem cell products have significant therapeutic potential because of their ability to regulate inflammation, promote tissue regeneration and prevent pathological scar formation.

Pluristem Therapeutics is a leading developer of placenta-based cell therapies. The company's patented PLX (PLacental eXpanded) cells are a drug delivery platform that releases a cocktail of therapeutic proteins in response to a host of local and systemic inflammatory and ischemic disease. Shares of the company have gained 40 percent in the last month.

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at: http://www.paragonreport.com/disclaimer

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Osiris Therapeutics and Pluristem Therapeutics Showing Impressive Growth as Biotech Industry Thrives in 2012

DUBLIN--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/dn327p/us_biotechnology_s) has announced the addition of the "US Biotechnology Sector: Industry Profile" report to their offering.

This industry profile helps to gain an insight into the evolution of the industry and competitive dynamics prevalent in the market. It discusses the significant developments in the industry and analyzes the key trends and issues. The profile provides inputs in strategic business planning of industry professionals.

This profile is of immense help to management consultants, analysts, market research organizations and corporate advisors.

Key Topics Covered

Industry Snapshot

This section gives a holistic overview of the industry. It starts with defining the market and goes on to give historical and current market size figures. It also clearly illustrates the major segments of the market which would be discussed later on in the report.

Industry Analysis

It involves a comprehensive analysis of the industry and its market segments. This section discusses the key developments that have taken place in the industry. It also identifies and analyzes the driving factors and challenges of the industry. A description of the regulatory structure tells us about the major regulatory bodies, laws and government policies.

Country Analysis

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Research and Markets: US Biotechnology Sector: Industry Profile

Biotechnology stock pickers have to meticulously comb through a lot of startup businesses to finally land on a diamond in the rough. On the other hand, investors may also consider biotech exchange traded funds as a way to gain a diversified position for the overall sector.

According to Paragon Report, the recent FDA Amendment Act of 2007 has forced the biotech sector to accept more strict standards for approvals on new drugs, including mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies.

Consequently, pharmaceutical firms have shifted from primary care driven blockbuster drugs to specialized, niche products targeting oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the need is so high that prices are more easily accepted by regulators, according to a IMAP Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report. [Biotech ETFs in Multiyear Breakout]

Kaul, the portfolio manager of Fidelity Advisor Biotechnology Fund, draws similarities between the biotech industry and Silicon Valley circa 1984 when startups began their 25 year boom.

My long-term view is that the next five, 10, 15, 20 years for the [biotech] industry will be one of the most promising places to be in the world, Kaul said in a Bank Investment Consultant article.

The quality of drugs in the pipeline should improve, which, he believes, would fuel future growth.

The biotech industry has one of the best business models in the world, with high barriers for entry, high margins and long copyright protections.

Kaul, though, cautions that investors have to be conscious of minimizing the risk of blow-ups and disappointment in the labs, highlighting the difficulty in discovering a workable and potentially lucrative wonder drug.

Investors, though, may gain broad exposure to the overall sector and limit their risks to individual holdings through ETF products.

The iShares Nasdaq Biotechnology ETF (IBB) is the largest biotech ETF, with $2.21 billion in assets and a 0.48% expense ratio. IBB is up 29.0% year-to-date.

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Follow the Next Breakthrough Drug Makers with Biotechnology ETFs

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) today thanked Sens. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and members of the Senate Finance Committee for including the Cellulosic Biofuels Producer Tax Credit (PTC), the Accelerated Depreciation Allowance for Cellulosic Biofuel Plant Property, adding algae biofuels in the tax extenders package, and extending the R&D tax credit for two years.

BIOs President and CEO Jim Greenwood made the following statement:

Tax policy should be focused on driving innovation to reduce our dependence on foreign oil, lower gas prices, and create high quality U.S. based career opportunities. Perhaps more than any other investment, biorefineries can help achieve these objectives by leveraging U.S. biotech innovation and agricultural productivity to revitalize domestic manufacturing.

Advanced biofuel and renewable chemicals tax credits drive innovation while leveling the playing field for U.S. companies and ensuring these American-born technology innovations are deployed here at home.

U.S. tax policy should support the full range of biorefinery opportunities biofuels, biobased products, and renewable chemicals and extending the tax credits helps to do just that. Producing affordable domestic alternatives to all products that come from foreign oil is vital to renewed economic growth and energy security. These tax credits give companies that are innovating a stable policy to bring commercial-scale alternatives to the market.

By extending the cellulosic biofuels producer tax credit and accelerated depreciation allowance for cellulosic biofuel plant property, and by adding algae-based biofuels to these two sections of the code, this proposal sends an important signal to investors that Congress continues to support the key role these technologies must play in securing our energy future.

Furthermore, BIO strongly supports the provisions of the package which would extend the valuable R&D tax credit for two years. Like others, BIO has consistently urged that this credit be made permanent, and we will continue to work toward this goal."

About BIO

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the worlds largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world. BIO produces BIOtechNOW, an online portal and monthly newsletter chronicling innovations transforming our world. Subscribe to BIOtechNOW.

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BIO Thanks Sens. Baucus, Hatch for Extending Tax Policy That Drives Innovation

SEATTLE, Aug. 2, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. (PLPL), a producer of highly bioavailable plant extracts, today announced that research has demonstrated the potential use of its proprietary green tea gallate catechin extract, Phytofare(TM), for treating a broad spectrum of infectious parasitic and bacterial infections. Multiple studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of the green tea catechins, EGCG and ECG, on blood stages with research published in the US National Library of Medicine pointing to use of glucose in establishing a foothold in parasitic infected humans. Simply put, glucose is the food that parasites need to survive and multiply. A new field of research has opened up focusing on developing glucose and hexose inhibitors--agents that essentially cut off the food supply by preventing the infection from up taking the glucose.

A November 2009 in vitro study demonstrated that gallate catechins, such as those found in green tea, are effective glucose and hexose inhibitors. The catechins bind themselves to the adhesion molecules, preventing mobility of the parasite or bacteria and also inhibiting glucose absorption. Unable to move or feed, the infection is unable to replicate itself and, effectively, dies.

Plandai Chief Executive Officer, Roger Duffield, commented, "While the anti-parasitical properties of green tea have been known for years, only recently has science begun understanding the specific mechanism at work. The effectiveness of green tea catechins as a glucose inhibitor opens up an entire new field of research to us. Phytofare(TM) is potentially the long sought-for key to unlocking an effective, inexpensive treatment for the hundreds of millions of people suffering from parasitic infections throughout the world. Many of these infections have become increasingly drug resistant, forcing medicine to explore new methods for eradicating these diseases."

About Plandai Biotechnology, Inc.

Plandai Biotechnology, Inc., through its recent acquisition of Global Energy Solutions, Ltd. and its subsidiaries, focuses on the farming of whole fruits, vegetables and live plant material and the production of proprietary functional foods and botanical extracts for the health and wellness industry. Its principle holdings consist of land, farms and infrastructure in South Africa.

Safe Harbor Statement

The information provided may contain forward-looking statements and involve risks and uncertainties. Results, events and performances could vary from those contemplated. These statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results, expressed or implied, to differ from predicted outcomes. Risks and uncertainties include product demand, market competition, and Plandai's ability to meet current or future plans. Investors should study and understand all risks before making an investment decision. Readers are recommended not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Plandai is not obliged to publicly release revisions to any forward-looking statement, to reflect events or circumstances afterward, or to disclose unanticipated occurrences, except as required under applicable laws.

Continued here:
Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. Announces Phytofare(TM) Shows Potential for Treating Many Infectious Diseases

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO) invites biotechnology, health care, energy, business, government policy and food agriculture experts to submit proposals for breakout sessions at the 2013 BIO International Convention, the global event for biotechnology, to be held April 22-25, 2013 at McCormick Place in Chicago, IL.

The BIO International Convention will highlight the latest trends and newest opportunities for executives, investors, scientists, policy leaders, and media from around the world. Session speakers will share breakthroughs in medicine, diagnostics, the environment, energy production, business operations, financing, partnerships, policy issues and food and agriculture.

Industry experts looking to advance a field of thought, gain wide media exposure plus lasting visibility and establish a dialogue amongst their peers should consider submitting a breakout session proposal. Proposals will be accepted starting August 23 until September 27, 2012, 5:00 p.m. (EDT) and are open to all industry experts. For information on how to submit a session proposal, please visit here.

All submissions received are peer-reviewed by the Convention Program Committee which includes both domestic and international industry professionals, editors from major publications and BIO staff. Applicants will be notified of the status of their session proposal by mid-December.

The BIO Business Forum company presentations provide yet another chance to gain unrivaled exposure. This program allows presenters to spotlight and pitch their companies to powerful business development executives, investors, analysts, policy makers and the press. Open to all attendees, participating companies can take advantage of exclusive resources, including added visibility in the One-on-One Partnering System, webinars, onsite consultations to enhance their presentation skills and video and media opportunities through the BIO Buzz Center. In addition, presenting companies typically schedule more meetings in the Partnering System than non-presenting companies, adding more value to their participation in the Business Forum. Applications for the BIO Business Forum company presentations will be accepted beginning January 14th, 2013. For more information, please visit the BIO Business Forum company presentation homepage.

The BIO International Convention is the largest global event for the biotechnology industry, offering networking and partnering opportunities. The 2012 BIO International Convention attracted over 16,500 attendees from 50 states and 65 countries. The program included keynote luncheons, Super Sessions, special programs and breakout sessions. For additional attendee and exhibitor information, please visit here.

About BIO

BIO represents more than 1,100 biotechnology companies, academic institutions, state biotechnology centers and related organizations across the United States and in more than 30 other nations. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology products. BIO also produces the BIO International Convention, the worlds largest gathering of the biotechnology industry, along with industry-leading investor and partnering meetings held around the world. BIO produces BIOtechNOW, an online portal and monthly newsletter chronicling innovations transforming our world. Subscribe to BIOtechNOW.

Upcoming BIO Events

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BIO Issues Call for Sessions for 2013 BIO International Convention

ANN ARBOR, MI--(Marketwire -08/01/12)- Biotechnology Business Consultants, based in Ann Arbor, MI, has changed its name to BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Consulting LLC (BBCetc). The company was founded in 1990 to assist entrepreneurs in building new life science companies. Today, it provides commercialization services, including SBIR/STTR training and one-on-one proposal preparation assistance to technology entrepreneurs and early-stage companies across many sectors.

"We've grown a lot since 1990, and we needed a name that more accurately reflected what we do now in the areas of technology assessment and commercialization, SBIR/STTR and other research grant assistance, training and grant management," said Lisa Kurek, managing partner, BBCetc. "In addition to the Michigan Assistance Program we manage for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, BBC provided services to companies and tech-based economic development organizations in 18 other states last year."

As part of the change, BBCetc has introduced a new logo, newsletter, and website, which features an array of tools for entrepreneurs, including an SBIR/STTR FAQ, important solicitation dates and deadlines, timely updates, the BBCetc training schedule and resource links.

"We will be keeping the site current on a regular basis and adding even more tools and information in coming months," said Kurek.

BBCetc has also announced the addition of Rebecca Aistrup to its staff as a principal consultant. Prior to joining BBCetc, Aistrup was the SBIR/STTR program director for the Minnesota Science and Technology Authority.

"Becky is a rare find and well able to hit the ground running," Kurek noted. "She is thoroughly versed in SBIR/STTR, with particular expertise in the Dept. of Defense, Dept. of Energy and USDA programs, and she also offers extensive experience in commercialization and marketing. All of this will be a great benefit for our clients."

Aistrup's professional background includes over 20 years of experience working within the medical, biotech, advanced materials and electronics industries, and consulting with technology companies on SBIR/STTR funding. In the 1990s, she served as vice president, Business Development & Licensing, for a successful SBIR firm, helping them strategically target proposals and develop Phase II commercialization plans. Aistrup holds a B.A. degree in chemistry from the University of Kansas, an M.B.A. in marketing management from the University of Minnesota, and a Master's Certification in interactive marketing from the University of San Francisco.

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Biotechnology Business Consultants Becomes BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Consulting

EAST SETAUKET, N.Y., July 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --Lixte Biotechnology Holdings, Inc. (LIXT.PK), announced allowance by the Food and Drug Administration to conduct a Phase I trial of its lead, potentially first-in-class, anti-cancer compound, LB-100. The trial will be conducted at a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Lixte also reported raising $2,468,250 to initiate this trial and to continue its drug discovery research through an offering to holders of warrants for exercising their rights in cash.

Dr. John S. Kovach, founder and president of Lixte, said that, "LB-100, a novel anti-cancer compound, inhibits a target enzyme that has multiple activities in various tissues, including mediating the response of cells to DNA damage. Many standard anti-cancer drugs and radiation exert their therapeutic activity by damaging DNA. Inhibition of the target enzyme by LB-100 prevents cancer cells from defending themselves against this injury thereby enhancing the effectiveness of the treatment. Our priority is to determine the safety of LB-100 in the upcoming Phase I clinical trial and subsequently the extent of its anti-cancer activity in Phase II trials. Given the novel mechanism of action of LB-100 and its effectiveness in potentiating standard chemotherapeutic drugs and radiation in animal models, we are hopeful that LB-100 will be a significant addition to treatment regimens for a range of cancers. We are grateful to our investors who continue to support our programs as we achieve significant milestones."

About Lixte Biotechnology Holdings, Inc.Lixte is engaged primarily in development of improved treatments for cancer. The company was created to capitalize on opportunities to develop low cost, specific and sensitive tests for the early detection of cancers. Over the past five years, however, Lixte has evolved into what is now primarily a drug discovery company, using biomarker technology to identify vulnerable enzyme targets, which contribute to cancer and other serious non-malignant common diseases, and then design novel compounds to attack those targets.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. For example, statements regarding the Company's financial position, business strategy and other plans and objectives for future operations, and assumptions and predictions about future product demand, supply, manufacturing, costs, marketing and pricing factors are all forward-looking statements. These statements are generally accompanied by words such as "intend," anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "potential(ly)," "continue," "forecast," "predict," "plan," "may," "will," "could," "would," "should," "expect" or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology. The Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, based on information available to it on the date hereof, but the Company cannot provide assurances that these assumptions and expectations will prove to have been correct or that the Company will take any action that the Company may presently be planning. However, these forward-looking statements are inherently subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results or experience may differ materially from those expected or anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, regulatory policies, available cash, research results, competition from other similar businesses, and market and general economic factors. This discussion should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto in the Quarterly Report on Form 10Q for March 31, 2012.

For additional information, please see: http://www.Lixte.com

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Lixte Biotechnology Holdings Announces Increased Funding And FDA Allowance To Conduct A Phase I Trial Of Its Lead Anti ...

SEATTLE, July 31, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. (PLPL), a producer of highly bioavailable plant extracts, today announced recent test results support the use of catechins in preventing the spread of HIV. The report, published in Clinical Immunology, states that four catechins with the galloyl moiety, including catechin gallate (CG), epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), gallocatechin gallate (GCG), and epicatechin gallate (ECG), were found to effectively inhibit HIV-1 integrase. Integrase is the enzyme produced by a virus that allows it to be integrated into the infected cell. Inhibiting integrase is seen as a key component in preventing the spread of retroviruses such as HIV.

The study, while recognizing previous research demonstrating the potential for green tea catechins in preventing HIV, sought to isolate the operative factors that yielded these results. The researchers found that the four catechins may bind between the HIV-1 integrase, thus disrupting its interaction with virus DNA. The four catechins have a highly cooperative inhibitory effect, suggesting that catechins with the galloyl moiety could be a novel and effective class of HIV-1 integrase inhibitors.

In 2007 the first HIV-1 integrase target drug, Raltegravir, was approved by the Food and Drug Administration. While HIV-1 integrase has become an attractive drug target recently, raltegravir resistance mutations have been found in clinical trials.

Roger Duffield, Chief Executive Officer of Plandai, commented, "The recently approved clinical integrase inhibitors are almost all derived from diketo acid (DKA), a synthetic compound that selectively inhibits the strand transfer step of integration. Catechins, however, are natural compounds found in tea that are well-known for their healthy effects and safety. Thus, catechins may provide a safe and well-tolerated drug. Furthermore, catechins are cheap natural compounds. A clinical dose of our green tea derived catechin extract would be approximately 700 times cheaper than raltegravir. Thus, catechins that contain a galloyl moiety may drastically reduce the prescription cost for HIV-1 patients and may be popular among low-income populations."

Plandai Biotechnology's patented highly-bioavailable green tea extract, Phytofare(TM), is a green tea-based extract rich in all four catechins and eight times better absorbed by human tissue.

About Plandai Biotechnology, Inc.

Plandai Biotechnology, Inc. focuses on the farming of whole fruits, vegetables and live plant material and the production of proprietary functional foods and botanical extracts for the health and wellness industry. Its principle holdings consist of land, farms and infrastructure in South Africa. Web site: http://www.plandaibiotech.com/

Safe Harbor Statement

The information provided may contain forward-looking statements and involve risks and uncertainties. Results, events and performances could vary from those contemplated. These statements involve risks and uncertainties which may cause actual results, expressed or implied, to differ from predicted outcomes. Risks and uncertainties include product demand, market competition, and Plandai's ability to meet current or future plans. Investors should study and understand all risks before making an investment decision. Readers are recommended not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements or information. Plandai is not obliged to publicly release revisions to any forward-looking statement, to reflect events or circumstances afterward, or to disclose unanticipated occurrences, except as required under applicable laws.

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Plandai Biotechnology Announces That in Recent Test Results Its Patented Phytofare(TM) Natural Green Tea "Catechins ...

NEW YORK, NY--(Marketwire -07/30/12)- The Biotechnology Industry has been soaring in 2012 as companies -- both large and small -- have shown impressive growth. The SPDR S&P Biotech ETF (XBI) and the First Trust NYSE Arca Biotech Index ETF (FBT) year-to-date are up 35 percent and 33 percent, respectively, outperforming the broader market by a wide margin. The Paragon Report examines investing opportunities in the Biotechnology Industry and provides equity research on Amgen, Inc. (AMGN) and Idenix Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (IDIX).

Access to the full company reports can be found at:

http://www.ParagonReport.com/AMGN

http://www.ParagonReport.com/IDIX

Despite having to negotiate a more challenging regulation process, biotech companies have continued to show investors strong gains in 2012. The FDA Amendments Act of 2007 forced regulators to increase standards for approvals of new drugs, introducing mandatory risk evaluation and mitigation strategies. According to a Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology report from IMAP, several pharmaceutical firms have altered their drug portfolios from primary care driven blockbusters towards specialties such as oncology, immunology and inflammation, where the medical need is "so high that prices are more easily accepted by the regulators."

Paragon Report releases regular market updates on the Biotechnology Industry so investors can stay ahead of the crowd and make the best investment decisions to maximize their returns. Take a few minutes to register with us free at http://www.ParagonReport.com and get exclusive access to our numerous stock reports and industry newsletters.

A leader in biotechnology since 1980, Amgen was one of the first companies to realize the new science's promise by bringing safe, effective medicines from lab, to manufacturing plant, to patient. The company recently reported that total revenues for the second quarter increased 13 percent to $4,477 million. Shares of the company are up over 20 percent year-to-date.

Idenix Pharmaceuticals is a biopharmaceutical company engaged in the discovery and development of drugs for the treatment of human viral diseases. Idenix's current focus is on the treatment of patients with HCV. The company recently reported that the FDA has granted Fast Track designation for IDX719 for the treatment of chronic hepatitis C infection (HCV).

The Paragon Report has not been compensated by any of the above-mentioned publicly traded companies. Paragon Report is compensated by other third party organizations for advertising services. We act as an independent research portal and are aware that all investment entails inherent risks. Please view the full disclaimer at:

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Amgen and Idenix Pharmaceuticals Showing Strong Growth -- Biotech Industry Booming in 2012

CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Illinois Biotechnology Industry Organization (iBIO) and Georgia Bio have joined the Advanced Medical Technology Associations (AdvaMed) State Medical Technology Alliance (SMTA), bringing its total membership to 39 groups in 29 states.

The SMTA is a consortium of state-based trade associations that represent medical device manufacturers within their memberships. The Alliances mission is to collectively support the medical technology industry by fostering a collaborative environment through sharing of information, best practices and actively advocating for public policies that support medical innovation and job creation.

As the industry addresses significant policy challenges, AdvaMeds interactions and partnership with the state-based associations is increasingly important.

We are proud to join the ranks of other state-based industry representatives under AdvaMeds leadership and to work with Congress and the Obama administration, said David Miller, president and CEO of iBIO. Its important that government officials hear regularly from their home state business people.

The medtech industry is a strong contributor to the U.S. economy, responsible for creating more than two million high-paying jobs across the country.

Georgia has a strong medical device industry that has a significant impact on our state, said Charles Craig, president of Georgia Bio. We are excited about partnering with AdvaMed on state and federal issues concerning medical devices. As we deal with legislators in Congress, or in Atlanta, it is extremely important that we are speaking with a unified voice when telling our story. As a part of the SMTA, we will certainly do whatever we can to promote, preserve and enhance the industry in Georgia and nationally.

AdvaMeds President and CEO Stephen J. Ubl said he looks forward to working with the groups two newest members. We are pleased to welcome Georgia Bio and iBIO and look forward to working with them on important issues such as MDUFA implementation and the repeal of the medical device tax.

About iBIO

The Illinois Biotechnology Industry Organization (iBIO) champions biotechnology in Illinois and the surrounding Midwest region.Headquartered in Chicago, iBIOs mission is to strengthen the leadership position of Illinois and the Midwest as a globally recognized center of medical, agricultural and industrial biotechnology.With leaders from business, academia and government, iBIO promotes the development and retention of new companies as well as corporate expansions. iBIO advocates for sensible public policy at the local, state and federal levels. To learn more about iBIO and its programs, visit http://www.ibio.org.

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Illinois and Georgia Bio Organizations Join AdvaMed’s State Medical Technology Alliance

Posted on Saturday, July 28, 2012

Biotechnology refers to the use of living organisms, or their products, to modify human health and the human environment. Biotechnology is an interdisciplinary field of applied biology that involves the use of living organisms and bioprocesses in engineering, technology, medicine. The Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials provides a collaborative open access platform to the scientists throughout the world in the field of Biotechnology and biomaterials. Journal of Biotechnology & Biomaterials is an Open Access scientific journal which is peer-reviewed. It publishes the most exciting researches with respect to the subjects of Biomaterial development and their diagnostic applications. This is freely available online journal which will be soon available as a print.

Biotechnology (sometimes shortened to "biotech") is the use of living systems and organisms to develop or make useful products, and it is usually seen in agriculture, food production and medicine production. Modern use of similar terms includes genetic engineering as well as cell and tissue culture technologies.

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journal biotechnology - OMICS Publishing Group

Cytos Biotechnology Ltd Reports Second Quarter 2012 Financial Results, Recent Development and Outlook

- Cytos Biotechnology Ltd substantially increases its cash by raising CHF 33.58 million through equity and debt

- Board of Directors further strengthened by the nomination of Dr. Christian Itin, former President and CEO of Micromet Inc., as a Non-Executive Director

- Large global Phase IIb program with CYT003 in allergic asthma planned to start in 2H12

Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, July 30, 2012 - Cytos Biotechnology Ltd (Cytos or the Company) announced today financial results and business highlights for the quarter ended June 30, 2012.

Highlights During the first half of 2012 the Company raised CHF 33.58 million through equity and debt whereas CHF 23.75 million was provided as equity and CHF 6.625 million was provided in the form of convertible loan notes - both from an international syndicate of investors which include venBio, Abingworth, Aisling Capital and Amgen. Furthermore, CHF 3.20 million in the form of equity was raised through a rights offering to existing shareholders. Cytos intends to use the proceeds primarily to conduct a large global phase IIb study in allergic asthma with CYT003.

In conjunction with the capital raise, Joseph Anderson (Abingworth), John Berriman (Deputy Chairman of Algeta), Paul Brooke (venBio), Kurt von Emster (venBio) and Arthur Krieg (CEO of RaNA Therapeutics), who were nominated and elected to the board of directors on April 20, 2012, started their term of office on May 14, 2012. The new directors bring significant additional life science experience to the Company.

In May 2012, the Company announced the nomination of Dr. Christian Itin to its Board as a Non-executive Director. The Board of Directors will propose to the Companys shareholders the election of Dr. Itin as member of the Board at the next general meeting. Dr. Itin is the former President and Chief Executive Officer of Micromet Inc., a formerly Nasdaq listed biopharmaceutical company which was acquired in March 2012 by Amgen, Inc. for USD 1.16 billion in cash. He spent 13 years with Micromet in a number of senior management roles, becoming CEO in 2004.

The detailed Q2 Financial Report can be downloaded at http://www.cytos.com/userfiles/file/Cytos_Q2_2012_E.pdf

For further information please contact: Cytos Biotechnology Ltd Harry Welten Chief Financial Officer Tel.: +41 44 733 46 46 e-Mail: harry.welten@cytos.com Website: http://www.cytos.com

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DGAP-News: Cytos Biotechnology Ltd Reports Second Quarter 2012 Financial Results, Recent Development and Outlook

SCHLIEREN, Switzerland, July 30, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

Cytos Biotechnology Ltd ("Cytos" or the "Company") announced today financial results and business highlights for the quarter ended June 30, 2012.

Highlights

During the first half of 2012 the Company raised CHF 33.58 million through equity and debt whereas CHF 23.75 million was provided as equity and CHF 6.625 million was provided in the form of convertible loan notes - both from an international syndicate of investors which include venBio, Abingworth, Aisling Capital and Amgen. Furthermore, CHF 3.20 million in the form of equity was raised through a rights offering to existing shareholders. Cytos intends to use the proceeds primarily to conduct a large global phase IIb study in allergic asthma with CYT003.

In conjunction with the capital raise, Joseph Anderson (Abingworth), John Berriman (Deputy Chairman of Algeta), Paul Brooke (venBio), Kurt von Emster (venBio) and Arthur Krieg (CEO of RaNA Therapeutics), who were nominated and elected to the board of directors on April 20, 2012, started their term of office on May 14, 2012. The new directors bring significant additional life science experience to the Company.

In May 2012, the Company announced the nomination of Dr. Christian Itin to its Board as a Non-executive Director. The Board of Directors will propose to the Company's shareholders the election of Dr. Itin as member of the Board at the next general meeting. Dr.Itin is the former President and Chief Executive Officer of Micromet Inc., a formerly Nasdaq listed biopharmaceutical company which was acquired in March 2012 by Amgen, Inc. for USD 1.16 billion in cash. He spent 13 years with Micromet in a number of senior management roles, becoming CEO in 2004.

The detailed Q2 Financial Report can be downloaded at http://www.cytos.com/userfiles/file/Cytos_Q2_2012_E.pdf

About Cytos Biotechnology Ltd

Cytos Biotechnology Ltd is a Swiss public biotechnology company that specializes in the development and commercialization of a new class of biopharmaceutical products - the Immunodrugs. Immunodrugs are intended for use in the treatment and prevention of common chronic diseases, which afflict millions of people worldwide. Immunodrugs are designed to instruct the patient's immune system to produce the desired therapeutic antibody or T cell responses that modulate chronic disease processes. Cytos' Immunodrug candidates are being developed both in-house and together with Novartis, Pfizer and Pfizer Animal Health. Founded in 1995 as a spinoff from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich, the Company is located in Schlieren (Zurich). Cytos Biotechnology Ltd is listed according to the Main Standard on the SIX Swiss Exchange Ltd under the symbol CYTN.

This foregoing press release may contain forward-looking statements that include words or phrases such as "are intended for", "are designed to", or other similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of significant uncertainties, including scientific, business, economic and financial factors, and therefore actual results may differ significantly from those presented. There can be no assurance that any further therapeutic entities will enter clinical trials, that clinical trial results will be predictive for future results, that therapeutic entities will be the subject of filings for regulatory approval, that any drug candidates will receive marketing approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or equivalent regulatory authorities, or that drugs will be marketed successfully. Against the background of these uncertainties readers should not rely on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no responsibility to update forward-looking statements or adapt them to future events or developments.

Link:
Cytos Biotechnology Ltd Reports Second Quarter 2012 Financial Results, Recent Development and Outlook

Background:
Thermophilic fungi have attracted increased interest for their ability to secrete enzymes that deconstruct biomass at high temperatures. However, development of thermophilic fungi as enzyme producers for biomass deconstruction has not been thoroughly investigated. Comparing the enzymatic activities of thermophilic fungal strains that grow on targeted biomass feedstocks has the potential to identify promising candidates for strain development. Thielavia terrestris and Thermoascus aurantiacus were chosen for characterization based on literature precedents.
Results:
Thermoascus aurantiacus and Thielavia terrestris were cultivated on various biomass substrates and culture supernatants assayed for glycoside hydrolase activities. Supernatants from both cultures possessed comparable glycoside hydrolase activities when incubated with artificial biomass substrates. In contrast, saccharifications of crystalline cellulose and ionic liquid-pretreated switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) revealed that T. aurantiacus enzymes released more glucose than T. terrestris enzymes over a range of protein mass loadings and temperatures. Temperature-dependent saccharifications demonstrated that the T. aurantiacus proteins retained higher levels of activity compared to a commercial enzyme mixture sold by Novozymes, Cellic CTec2, at elevated temperatures. Enzymes secreted by T. aurantiacus released glucose at similar protein loadings to CTec2 on dilute acid, ammonia fiber expansion, or ionic liquid pretreated switchgrass. Proteomic analysis of the T. aurantiacus culture supernatant revealed dominant glycoside hydrolases from families 5, 7, 10, and 61, proteins that are key enzymes in commercial cocktails.
Conclusions:
T. aurantiacus produces a complement of secreted proteins capable of higher levels of saccharification of pretreated switchgrass than T. terrestris enzymes. The T. aurantiacus enzymatic cocktail performs at the same level as commercially available enzymatic cocktail for biomass deconstruction, without strain development or genetic modifications. Therefore, T. aurantiacus provides an excellent platform to develop a thermophilic fungal system for enzyme production for the conversion of biomass to biofuels.Source:
http://www.biotechnologyforbiofuels.com/rss/