AMHERST, N.H.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 6, 2004--For the millions of patients of cardiovascular disease, non-invasive treatment options have essentially been palliative, with coronary symptoms alleviated via prescription drugs designed to temporarily ease discomfort. Now a number of companies are pursuing development efforts aimed at addressing the underlying physiological factors that comprise the various forms of cardiovascular disease. By delivering therapeutic genes that promote beneficial effects, in many cases directly to the compromised heart tissue, these companies hope to acquire a major stake in a worldwide market that exceeds $60 billion.
Most companies are focusing on therapeutic angiogenesis, a technique that has emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of ischemic heart disease and related conditions. The development of treatments based on a number of vascular growth factors, coupled with advances in delivery vectors, has moved several programs beyond initial clinical investigations.
"While a number of critical post-Phase I clinical trials taking place over the next eighteen months will determine the true market and therapeutic potential for gene-based cardiovascular therapies, data from recently completed trials is promising," explains George Perros, Greystone Associates Managing Director. "We are forecasting gene-based cardiovascular therapies to be an important therapeutic option in the second half of the decade."
The survey's findings are contained in Gene-based Cardiovascular Therapies: Advancing Technology, Improving Outlook, a new report researched and written by Greystone Associates. More information is available at www.greystoneassociates.org
About Greystone
Greystone Associates is a medical and healthcare technology consulting firm providing services in strategic planning, venture development, product commercialization, and technology and market assessment.
Contacts
Greystone Associates
Mark Smith, 603-595-4340 marksmith@greystoneassociates.org www.greystoneassociates.org
