13 July 2007, Adelaide, Australia. Drug discovery company, Bionomics Limited (ASX:BNO), is today presenting the latest preclinical data for its drug development programs in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Anxiety, at the 2007 IBRO World Congress of Neuroscience.
The IBRO (International Brain Research Organisation) Congress, held in Melbourne from 12-17 July, is considered the pre-eminent gathering point for neuroscientists around the world and provides a platform to showcase the internationally leading research and development in neuroscience.
Bionomics’ MS and anxiety programs have been accepted for poster presentations announcing new research data.
Multiple Sclerosis
Dr Jorgen Mould, the MS program leader, will present biological data for the most promising compound in the series. This includes demonstration in a model system that BNC245 is able to effectively suppress the activation and proliferation of specific cells responsible for the degradation of the myelin sheath which surrounds nerves cells and to inhibit MS-like symptoms in an animal model of MS. The data is shown as an addendum to this announcement below.
“We are particularly encouraged by the ability of our compounds to treat experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for MS, with no observed side effects,” he said.
Bionomics’ MS program has made significant progress in 2007 with a series of compounds exhibiting high potency and selectivity for the potassium channel Kv1.3, a novel target for the treatment of MS and other autoimmune diseases. This represents a major new market opportunity for Bionomics.
Anxiety
The leader of the BNC210 project, Dr Sue O’Connor, will present the results from the preclinical evaluation of BNC210. The data shows that BNC210 is a very potent anxiolytic compound in rodent models with a large therapeutic window. In addition, the compound is well tolerated and has none of the side effects usually associated with drugs used for the treatment of anxiety, including sedation, loss of memory and impairment of motor co-ordination.
“This conference is a wonderful opportunity to present the results of our work with this promising compound to a high calibre scientific audience,” said Dr O’Connor.
Last month, Bionomics nominated BNC210 as a drug candidate for the treatment of anxiety. Preparations for the achievement of IND (Investigational New Drug) status from the US Food and Drug Administration and clinical development of BNC210 are now in progress. An IND is expected to be submitted in the fourth quarter of 2007. Bionomics has sufficient funds to progress this program following its successful capital raising.
To view the poster presentations please go to www.bionomics.com.au