BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., June 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- OXIS INTERNATIONAL, INC. (OTC Bulletin Board: OXIS, Paris: OXI), is extremely pleased to announce that it has assumed control and future exploitation rights to International Patent PCT Application PCY/US2008/059831. The invention centers on the use of L-Ergothioneine (“ERGO”) as a primary preservative for cells and tissue in culture. Such preservatives are essential for keeping cells in their “normal” state for later use or study and for transporting cells without damage. Today, freezing is the primary method for cell preservation. But freezing often compromises the recovery and/or normal function of the cells. One of the many practical applications of this improved method of preservation is for artificial insemination, where the ability to more easily preserve, transport and use sperm cells without alteration offers many advantages. This offers significant value if the sperm can be preserved and kept viable for extended periods time. ERGO has been shown to be highly effective as a cellular preservative, not only for cells and tissue but organs as well. In that regard, ERGO may well offer a further future opportunity as a preservative for transplant organs. OXIS and its active scientific board will continue to research and deliver important and practical new applications for ERGO that represent significant market opportunities for the Company. “This patent filing reinforces the efficacy and market opportunity approach OXIS is currently taking with this breakthrough antioxidant,” added Tony Cataldo, CEO.
About OXIS International, Inc.
OXIS International, Inc. develops technologies and products to research, diagnose, treat and prevent diseases of oxidative stress/inflammation associated with damage from free radical and reactive oxygen species (ROS). The company holds the rights to several therapeutic classes of compounds in the area of oxidative stress, and has focused commercialization programs that include SOD (superoxide dismutase), MPO (myeloperoxidase), GPx (glutathione peroxidase), as well as a highly potent antioxidant, Ergothioneine, that may be sold over-the-counter (OTC) as a dietary supplement.
Forward-Looking Statement
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve numerous risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including those set forth in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
SOURCE OXIS International, Inc.
