MASSY, FRANCE--(Marketwire - October 18, 2012) - Quantum Genomics (NYSE Euronext Paris: MLQGC) announces today the successful completion of the first-in-human phase I clinical study with its product QGC001. QGC001 is the first of a new class of drugs that aim to treat high blood pressure through an inhibition of the aminopeptidase A enzyme (APA) at the brain level.

The results of this phase Ia study conducted in 56 healthy male subjects randomized in 8 sequential groups (10 mg, 50 mg, 125 mg, 250 mg, 500 mg, 750 mg, 1000 mg and 1250 mg) show that QGC001 is safe and well-tolerated following single oral administration. Pharmacokinetic analysis demonstrated good dose proportional exposure to QGC001.

Lionel Segard, CEO of Quantum Genomics says: « The results of this first clinical study are very encouraging. All doses tested have been well-tolerated. A multiple ascending dose phase Ib study is underway and if successful, we aim to start phase II studies in hypertensive patients next year ».

About QGC001 and arterial hypertension

QGC001 is the first molecule of a new class of anti-hypertensive agents, brain aminopeptidase A inhibitors (BAPAI), which were co-discovered by the research teams of Dr. C. Llorens-Cortes (INSERM U1050/Collège de France) and Prof. BP. Roques (INSERM U1022/CNRS/Université Paris Descartes).

QGC001 could offer a therapeutic alternative for the treatment of high blood pressure for patients with Low Renin High Vasopressin profile (LRHV) whose high blood pressure is often more difficult to control with conventional blockers of the renin angiotensin system.

Arterial hypertension affects an estimated 1 billion people worldwide (13 million people in France). Despite the availability of many antihypertensive drugs, 60% of patients diagnosed with hypertension are still poorly controlled by current medications for various reasons. Moreover, the overall incidence of resistant hypertension to at least three antihypertensive drugs (including a diuretic) is estimatedto be 10% of the hypertensive population.

The world market for anti-hypertensive drugs is projected to exceed $66.2 billion by the year 2015. [1]

About Quantum Genomics

QGC is a biotechnology company developing new therapies in areas where an unmet medical need exists.

QGC is presently focused on the treatment of cardiovascular diseases and especially arterial hypertension.

The company is co-developing its products with academic teams and will set up strategic alliances and commercial partnerships with larger company in order to bring them to market.

The company is headquartered in Massy (France) under the leadership of Lionel Segard, supported by a management team of experienced people, including Fabrice Balavoine (VP Research & Development) and Michel Lepers (VP Business Development).

[1] Global Industry Analysts, Inc 2010

Press release: http://hugin.info/146217/R/1649910/532022.pdf

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Source: Quantum Genomics via Thomson Reuters ONE [HUG#1649910]