Nutra Pharma says it discovered gene involved in progression of multiple sclerosis

By E. Janene Geiss

Philadelphia, Jan. 4 - Nutra Pharma Corp. said Wednesday that its continuing microarray studies have identified a new gene involved in the disease process of multiple sclerosis.

Although the gene and some of its functions are already known, this is the first evidence of involvement with the disease state of MS, according to a company news release.

The research also provides evidence that RPI-78M modulates the expression of this gene in laboratory assays, officials said.

RPI-78M is the lead drug candidate of Nutra Pharma's holding, ReceptoPharm Inc., and is being studied in preclinical assays for its efficacy in treating MS.

Eno Research and Development, Inc. was contracted by Nutra Pharma to analyze samples of immune cells and brain lesion material from MS patients, with and without the addition of RPI-78M, officials said.

The scientists measured the changes in gene expression that occurred with treatment. Statistical evaluation of the data revealed more than 60 genes with significant changes in expression as a result of exposure to RPI-78M, officials said.

In analyzing the affected genes, at least 30 may have a specific role in the progression of the disease and symptoms of MS, officials said.

"While RPI-78M alters the regulation of genes known to be involved with MS, we are especially excited by the modulation of this gene previously unassociated with MS at all. Work to further characterize the involvement of this gene in the disease progression of MS is ongoing," said James Flowers, president and chief scientific officer of Eno, in the release.

"The data from this study suggests that RPI-78M may aid the patient in reversing some of the damage caused by MS. It is notable that if these results were replicated in the patient population it may greatly reduce the severity of the disease," he added.

Nutra Pharma executives said they expect to present the data at related conferences and to seek publication of the finished work. The company said it also plans to patent this gene as a potential new target for MS therapies.

"If we are successful, the patent may provide revenues through partnerships and licensing. These studies, when coupled with the positive results in the animal models, create substantial evidence of the drug's effects against MS," Rik J. Deitsch, chief executive officer of Nutra Pharma, said in the release.

Nutra Pharma is Shanghai, China, biotechnology holding company that owns rights to intellectual property related to the development of drugs for HIV and multiple sclerosis.

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