Pressemitteilung

SEATTLE, Jan. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Targeted Genetics Corporation (Nasdaq: TGEN) today announced that the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office has issued a composition of matter patent No. 5,587,308 for the AAV vector used in Targeted Genetics' cystic fibrosis (CF) product. Specifically, the patent covers technology used to modify the packaging capability of the AAV vector to accommodate the entire therapeutic cystic fibrosis gene (CFTR). Barrie J. Carter, Ph.D., executive vice president and director of research and development at Targeted Genetics, pioneered the use of AAV as a vector and is an inventor of the technology covered under this patent. The patent was issued to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), since the technology was invented during Dr. Carter's tenure at the NIH, and is exclusively licensed to Targeted Genetics.

"Now we have solid patent protection on what appears to be the only AAV vector construct suitable for incorporating the entire CFTR gene," said H. Stewart Parker, president and chief executive officer of Targeted Genetics. "AAV vectors have demonstrated significant advantages over other vectors in delivering the CFTR gene to respiratory tract cells. By incorporating the entire CFTR gene into our CF product, we improve the likelihood of efficient gene expression and as a result, may enhance the therapeutic effect of our CF product."

Positive results from two Phase I human clinical trials of Targeted Genetics' CF product, called tgAAV-CFTR, were presented at the 10th Annual North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference in October 1996 and confirmed preclinical findings that tgAAV-CFTR was safe, demonstrated efficient gene transfer, and long term persistence. A Phase II human clinical trial of tgAAV-CFTR will begin in early 1997. In addition, Targeted Genetics is developing aerosol formulations of tgAAV-CFTR, and plans to initiate clinical trials in 1997 to evaluate aerosol delivery of tgAAV-CFTR to the lungs of CF patients.

AAV is a human virus to which the general opulation has commonly been exposed. It is not known to cause disease. tgAAV-CFTR comprises a modified, non-replicating form of AAV containing a normal functioning CFTR gene, and is designed to be delivered into respiratory tract cells where it may correct the primary CF defect by producing normal functioning CFTR protein.

Targeted Genetics develops gene and cell therapies for the treatment of certain acquired and inherited diseases. The company has three lead product development programs targeting cystic fibrosis, breast and ovarian cancer, and HIV cell therapy, as well as an extensive technology platform.

SOURCE Targeted Genetics Corp.
CO: Targeted Genetics Corp.
ST: Washington
IN: MTC
SU: PDT