NEWS
Receptagen Researchers Demonstrate the Induction of
Apoptosis in Neoplastic Cells by Depletion of Vitamin B12
EDMONDS, WASHINGTON--Receptagen Ltd. (TSE:RCG/OTCBB:RCEPF)
researchers and scientists at the National Research Council of
Canada have recently published an article in the journal "Cell
Death and Differentiation" describing apoptosis (programmed cell
death) of neoplastic cells triggered by depletion of vitamin B12
In a variety of cell lines in vitro, nitrous oxide was used to
inactivate vitamin B12. Methionine synthase, a critical enzyme for
DNA replication requires vitamin B12 as a cofactor. The resulting
inhibition of methionine synthase blocked the cells' ability to
proliferate and caused them to undergo apoptosis. Once started,
the kinetics of cell death are similar to those observed following
methotrexate treatment or serum withdrawal.
This is the first observation of apoptosis being induced following
depletion of an essential metabolite. This approach contrasts
with the more conventional strategy of adding a toxic drug, such
as methotrexate, to damage cells, thereby triggering apoptosis.
Moreover, vitamin B12 depletion has no apparent effect on the
nonproliferating cell population. On the other hand, methotrexate
has toxic side effects, but it is commonly used as a front line
therapy for treating breast cancer and sarcomas with annual unit
sales in the millions.
Clive Woodhouse, Ph.D., Vice President of Research and Product
Development stated, "Receptagen scientists and their collaborators
have published five other peer-reviewed articles relating to
"Growth Blockers". The current paper is noteable because it
describes the basic principle behind this technology which
distinguishes it from current cancer therapies. We believe its
application will provide significant advantages by reducing
toxicity to normal tissues. The Company is rapidly advancing its
research plans with its collaborators and anticipates having
additional data relating to animal studies later this year."
Receptagen is actively involved in two operations in Edmonds,
Washington: Receptagen Corporation, which pursues worldwide
development of proprietary "Growth Blocker" drugs to induce
apoptosis in cancer cells; and Ryan Pharmaceuticals Inc., which is
developing a pro-drug formulation of Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) for the
treatment of stroke and owns the exclusive rights to U.S.
commercialization of CoQ10 for use in treating AIDS symptoms.
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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Receptagen Ltd.
Clive Woodhouse, Ph.D. |
