Leman,
The diagnostic method using hyaluronic acid (HA) described in Haya Pharmaceutical's 23 April 1998 press release (Research Improves Accuracy of Breast Cancer Detection, quote.yahoo.com, doesn't fit the POC test platform. HA's got some promise though, not just in cancer diagnosis, but also treatment. You man find the following information from Anika Therapeutics' Form 10KSB filed on Mar 31 1998 interesting:
edgar-online.com
"HA Oligosaccharides
HA oligosaccharides are discrete pieces of the HA polysaccharide chain. Because many different types of normal cells and cells in disease processes contain HA receptors on the cell surface that interact with HA oligosaccharides, the material may have the ability to influence cell behavior.
One of the critical events in the metastasis of cancer is the interaction between tumor cells and the host tissue stroma. This interaction is mediated by certain cell surface receptors. Preclinical studies have indicated that the interaction between one of the cell surface receptors, the hyaluronan receptor CD44, and HA contained in the host tissue stroma enhances the growth of certain tumors. Preclinical studies conducted by the Company, working in collaboration with Tufts University and Massachusetts General Hospital, have indicated that HA oligosaccharides, by binding to the CD44 receptor and blocking the interaction with HA in the host tissue stroma, have inhibited the metastasis of human melanoma cancer cells inserted in mice. In addition, studies in an in vitro model have indicated that HA oligosaccharides inhibited the metastasis of human ovarian cancer cells.
The Company has obtained an exclusive worldwide license to this technology from Tufts University. During 1998 the Company plans to continue the preclinical testing of HA oligosaccharides and will seek a strategic partner to assist in the further development of this technology. There is no assurance that the Company will be able to find a strategic partner to assist in the future development of this technology."
Mike |
