Diacrin appears to be the first company granted FDA approval to test the use of bovine cells in humans. Currently their primary focus is the transplantation of dopaminergic cells ('NeuroCell-PD') into the striatum (brain) for treatment of late stage Parkinson's disease. Diacrin is also developing similar approaches for Huntington's disease ('NeuroCell-HD'). These 'drugs', which were developed through a joint venture with Genzyme's Tissue Repair Division, are in Phase I trials and have been granted orphan drug status by the FDA.
The company came public in February, 1996 @ 9.50, hit a high of 16.75 in February of this year, and hit a subsequent low of 8.50 in early May. Substantial losses have been incurred by the Company since its inception although 1Q '97 loss narrowed on a sharp revenue rise. An article describing the company appeared in the 16 May, 1997 edition of Investor's Business Daily. The article indicates demographics favor companies successfully developing treatments for such neuro- degenerative diseases. The investment risks, however, are clearly substantial.
-1st qtr.('97) earnings websmart.stocksmart.com:8810/ss-news/CX426802.html
-Brief Company profile: biz.yahoo.com
-Warrants (DCRNW) expire 12/31/00 |
