Oxford Glyco claims world lead with 4,000 proteins
LONDON, Dec 7 (Reuters) - Oxford GlycoSciences (LSE: OGS.L - news) Plc said on Friday it had achieved its target of patenting more than 4,000 proteins and related genes, giving it a global lead in the battle to unravel the biochemical basis of many diseases.
"We believe that this is the largest single disease-associated protein patent portfolio," Chief Executive Michael Kranda said in a statement.
"We see it as a major corporate asset which constitutes the foundation on which we are building multiple internal drug discovery programmes."
The British biotechnology company, originally spun out from Oxford University, is a major player in the fast-growing field of proteomics -- or understanding the links between genes, the proteins they produce and disease.
Its patent portfolio contains proteins that may be targets for new drugs to treat a wide range of diseases, including breast, liver, pancreatic and other cancers, and central nervous system disorders such as schizophrenia and dementia.
The company raised 190 million pounds ($270 million) last year from two major fundraisings and plans to use its protein knowledge to develop its own drugs, in partnership with other companies.
It has deals with NeoGenesis to develop small-molecule treatments, and with Medarex and its sister company Genmab for antibody-based medicines.
OGS's first drug, Vevesca, is currently being assesed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of Gaucher disease, a rare genetic disorder in which the body fails to break down fat... |
