Houston, TX, (September 30, 2004) Cytogenix, Inc. (CYGX: OTC: BB)
CytoGenix, Inc. (CYGX: OTC: BB) announces the filing on September 28, 2004, of a patent application with the US Patent and Trademark Office for an invention titled A Novel Genomic Approach Identifies Bacterial DNA-Dependent RNA Polymerase as the Target of an Antibacterial Oligodeoxynucleotide, RBL1.
The rapid emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria strains has created an urgent need for new classes of antimicrobial compounds with entirely new mechanisms of action. CytoGenix scientists have invented a method to rapidly screen and identify bacterial gene targets that when silenced, stop the growth of pathogens. They have demonstrated that short pieces of DNA have activity against several species of Gram-positive and Gram-negative organisms. This is a powerful technology for developing highly specific and efficacious non-resistant antimicrobial agents.
The genomic screening method itself is a powerful tool for identifying potential drug targets for many diseases and disorders. CytoGenix researchers are using this method to identify cancer and other infectious disease gene targets.
Dr. Malcolm Skolnick, CytoGenix President and CEO commented, "This patent embodies one use of this very powerful technology. Combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a critical unmet medical need. We believe that this technology will lead us to important advances in discovering new antimicrobial agents."
"Another important feature of this screening technology is that it has broad application to identifying other disease related gene targets. Our strategy is to identify targets against diseases and disorders which have few if any treatment options." adds, Dr. Skolnick.
CytoGenix, Inc. is a Houston-based biopharmaceutical company that develops and markets innovative products and services based on its proprietary ssDNA expression technology. CytoGenix currently has one issued US patent and over 40 international or US pending patent applications claiming methods and materials in connection with this platform technology.
SAFE HARBOR: Except for statements of historical fact, the statements in this press release are forward-looking. Such statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include, but are not limited to, general economic conditions, risks associated with the acceptance of new products, competition, and other factors more fully detailed in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Additional information about CytoGenix and its technology can be found on the website at www.cytogenix.com.
Contact: Communications Director — Juan Ferreira, (407) 774-9949
