CALGARY, March 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ – Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (TSX:
ONC, NASDAQ: ONCY) (“Oncolytics”) today announced that it has been granted
U.S. Patent 7,344,711 entitled “Use of Adenoviruses Mutated in the VA Genes
for Cancer Treatment.” The claims describe methods of treating cancer using
adenoviruses that are modified to selectively replicate in cancer cells that
have an activated Ras pathway.
“This patent expands our adenovirus portfolio both geographically and with
respect to which adenovirus variants can be used,” said Mary Ann Dillahunty,
Vice President of Intellectual Property for Oncolytics.
About Oncolytics Biotech Inc.
Oncolytics is a Calgary-based biotechnology company focused on the
development of oncolytic viruses as potential cancer therapeutics. Oncolytics’
clinical program includes a variety of Phase I/II and Phase II human trials
using REOLYSIN(R), its proprietary formulation of the human reovirus, alone
and in combination with radiation or chemotherapy. For further information
about Oncolytics, please visit www.oncolyticsbiotech.com
This news release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning
of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
Forward-looking statements, including among others, the Company’s belief as to
the importance of the issuance of this patent, the safety and efficacy of the
reovirus, the Company’s expectations as to the potential applications of the
patented technology and other statements relating to anticipated developments
in the Company’s business and technologies, involve known and unknown risks
and uncertainties that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ
materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such risks and
uncertainties include, among others, the efficacy of REOLYSIN(R) as a cancer
treatment, the success and timely completion of clinical studies and trials,
uncertainties related to the research and development of pharmaceuticals and
uncertainties related to the regulatory process. Investors should consult the
Company’s quarterly and annual filings with the Canadian and U.S. securities
commissions for additional information on risks and uncertainties relating to
the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against placing undue
reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to
update these forward-looking statements.
SOURCE Oncolytics Biotech Inc.
Released March 18, 2008