New Amsterdam Sciences Continues Pact With Dr. Jacob Finkelstein, PhD To Advance Pulmonary Fibrosis Research

SCOTTSDALE, AZ--(Marketwired - August 21, 2014) -

New Amsterdam Sciences (NAS), an emerging bioscience company, announced today that while advancing to phase1 clinical trials it will continue its commitment for further research with renowned biochemist and research scientist Dr. Jacob Finkelstein of the University of Rochester Medical Center to advance initiatives for treatments of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF).

Pulmonary fibrosis is a medical condition that greatly affects and impairs the respiratory system, causing dyspnea (shortness of breath), chronic coughing, fatigue and other symptoms. The tissue within the lung becomes scarred, causing a lack of oxygen flow within the body and the aforementioned effects. In most cases, the cause is unknown and becomes referred to as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, or IPF.

The ongoing work with Dr. Finkelstein is planned to demonstrate the efficacy and prospect thereof for reversal of existing pulmonary fibrosis conditions. The NAS team believes that not only do we see an effect in arresting progression we also confidently foresee treating existing conditions of IPF with expectations of being able to one day reverse Pulmonary Fibrosis and not only extend life but to save it as well.

The biological processes underlying the development of IPF are complex and multifaceted thus it seems likely that the most effective agents will be those that can address multiple mechanisms simultaneously or acts in concert with other therapeutic options. The ability of NAS911IPF to modulate inflammatory and fibrotic processes may prove critical to its ability to treat this disease,” said Dr. Finkelstein.

There are currently no FDA-approved therapies to treat idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in the United States. While the long-term goal of research is to prevent and cure the disease, present therapeutic approaches are focused on slowing disease progression and extending the life expectancy of Pulmonary Fibrosis patients.

There are approximately 50,000-70,000 new cases annually in the United States. Different correlated risks linked to pulmonary fibrosis include age and smoking history. IPF possesses a high death rate therefore it is critical we find solutions. For more information on IPF please visit www.pulmonaryfibrosis.org

The company is advancing to phase1 clinical trials as it completes final tests with MPI to submit IND (investigational New Drug Application). “We are moving at a significant pace advancing technology that has already demonstrated the ability to arrest pulmonary fibrosis,” said NAS’ Vice President Jerry Toepfer. “We are confident that, with Dr. Finkelstein’s guidance and further research will advance our ability to reverse the condition, as well.”

Annually 40,000 individuals die in the United States from pulmonary fibrosis and there are no FDA-approved therapies. Researchers across the globe tirelessly attempt to identify and develop therapies to improve, extend and save lives of those afflicted. However, InterMune Inc. currently has an idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis drug, Pirfenidone, in Phase III trials within the United States and, like several other therapies, is available in EU member states. Recently, InterMune launched a multi-center Expanded Access Program (EAP) in the United States to allow access to pirfenidone as a possible therapeutic option for patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) who meet the eligibility criteria. For more information visit www.coalitionforpf.org

About Jack Finkelstein
Dr. Finkelstein, Ph.D., is a professor at the University of Rochester Medical School within the departments of Pediatrics, Radiation, Oncology and Environmental Medicine. He is renowned for his efforts within radiation on cells in relation to the lungs in both oncology and biodefense facets. He received his Ph. D. from Northwestern University in Biochemistry and his BS in Chemistry from Carnegie-Mellon University.

About New Amsterdam Sciences
New Amsterdam Sciences is a development-stage bioscience company focused on the research, development and licensing of analogues of Substance P. NAS911B is the company’s lead compound, and is being pursued for indications including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, influenza infection, wound healing and solid tumors. New Amsterdam Sciences is devoted to developing products for both the commercial market and government markets, with exceptional candidates for mass-casualty biodefense applications specifically addressing acute radiation sickness (neutropenia), chemical exposure and biological warfare scenarios. To complete this mission, the company has cultivated numerous study partnerships with industry and academic leaders, including the Vaccine and Gene Therapy Institute of Florida, the University of Rochester, Harvard School of Medicine, and more. For additional information, please visit www.newamsterdamsciences.com