BOTHELL, Wash., Nov. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Helix BioMedix, Inc. Helix BioMedix (BULLETIN BOARD: HXBM) (the "Company") today announced the completion of a second-stage study designed to further evaluate the efficacy of the Company's anti-acne skin care product containing its proprietary HB64 peptide at commercially viable dosage levels. This evaluation was a follow-up to the Company's earlier anti-acne study announced on September 8, 2003, in which the efficacy of HB64 was tested in reducing the severity of mild to moderate acne symptoms. In that earlier, preliminary study, a 75% clinical improvement was observed as determined by physician assessment.
In the second-stage study announced today, HB64 was delivered in gel form at a concentration level designed to be consistent with cost-effective inclusion in consumer skin care products. The gel evaluated in the most recent test was used by 27 individuals, twice a day for twelve weeks and contained the HB64 peptide at one-tenth the dosage level tested in the earlier preliminary trial. At this reduced dosage level:
-- 78% of the study participants indicated that the gel improved their
complexion; and
-- 96% of the study participants indicated that the gel was equal to or
better than other acne products they had previously used.
Dr. Stephen M. Schleicher, Director of DermDx Centers for Dermatology, the company that conducted both studies stated that, "Based upon the results of Helix's two pilot studies, it appears that this compound equals or exceeds the efficacy of many commercially available nonprescription products used to treat acne."
Helix BioMedix also announced today preliminary results of its study to examine a prototype anti-wrinkle peptide. This proprietary peptide appears to demonstrate efficacy in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles. Further testing of the Company's anti-wrinkle product is scheduled for completion in Q1 2004. Another of the Company's proprietary peptides, HB107, is being evaluated as a wound-healing agent. Results of early-stage testing of HB107 are available on the Company's website at http://www.helixbiomedix.com/.
"These studies are very encouraging and should help to advance our ongoing discussions with a number of firms that have expressed interest in licensing our peptides for use in skincare products," noted Helix BioMedix CEO Stephen Beatty. "Based on the successful results of these studies and additional progress in our R&D programs addressing various dermal therapeutic applications, we have recently engaged Technology Catalysts, Inc, a Washington, D.C. based marketing firm, to assist us in the pursuit of out-licensing agreements with major cosmetics companies.
Rich DiCicco, President and CEO of Technology Catalysts, stated, "the major cosmetics companies have been very receptive to Helix's successful clinical studies and the relatively low cost profile of their peptides."
About Helix BioMedix:
Helix BioMedix, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company whose mission is to become the industry leader in developing and commercializing bioactive peptides (small proteins). The antimicrobial and wound healing properties of these peptides qualify them for inclusion in a wide range of both pharmaceutical and consumer products. The Company is currently focused on the development of selected peptides as pharmaceutical agents for use in treating cystic fibrosis, sexually-transmitted diseases, and in wound healing. Non-pharmaceutical applications being pursued by Helix BioMedix include adjuvants for cosmetics/cosmeceuticals and wide-spectrum biocides. Located in Bothell, Washington, Helix BioMedix is a product development company organized to derive revenue from licensing its peptide-based technology to partners with sales, marketing, and/or manufacturing expertise. More information about the Company and its proprietary peptides can be found on the Company's website at http://www.helixbiomedix.com/.
Important Notice:
Except for historical information presented in this press release, matters discussed herein may constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management only as of the date of this release and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, uncertainties related to the Company's access to capital, the progress, costs and results of any clinical trials undertaken by the Company, progress of research and development projects, and uncertainties related to whether the Company's product candidates would ultimately achieve commercial success.
Reference should be made to Helix BioMedix's public disclosure documents including its Annual Report on Form 10-KSB, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a more detailed description of such factors.
Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements that speak only as of the date of this press release. Helix BioMedix disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect new information, events or circumstances after the date of this release or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Helix BioMedix, Inc.