ISIS 301012 shown to reduce atherosclerotic plaques in animal models

By Lisa Kerner

Erie, Pa., April 27 - Isis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. said results of a study show that the antisense drug ISIS 301012 reduced atherosclerotic plaques, apoB-100, and circulating inflammatory cytokines in an animal model of atherosclerosis.

ISIS 301012 was administered to transgenic mice that were bred to contain no LDL receptor and also expressed human apoB-100, leading to extensive atherosclerotic plaques, according to a company news release.

A 14-week treatment with ISIS 301012 produced a dose-dependent reduction in apoB-100 levels, with concomitant decreases in aortic plaque volume, the company said.

At 50 mg/kg/wk, ISIS 301012 treatment reduced the levels of apoB-100 by 69% and aortic plaque volume by 75% compared to control-treated mice.

"Reducing atherosclerotic plaques in animals confirms that ISIS 301012 has the potential to benefit patients who already have atherosclerosis," said Rosanne Crooke, director of cardiovascular research, in the release.

"Patients suffering from cardiovascular disease often have high cholesterol, which leads to hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerotic plaques, increasing their risk of heart attack and stroke."

Located in Carlsbad, Calif., Isis uses RNA expertise to develop novel drugs for treating cardiovascular, metabolic and inflammatory diseases.

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