PTC124 shows activity in cystic fibrosis; Phase 2 proof-of-concept data published...( SOUTH PLAINFIELD NJ August 20 2008 ...)

SOUTH PLAINFIELD, NJ August 20, 2008 New phase 2 data published today in The Lancet show that the investigational oral drug PTC124 demonstrates activity in nonsense-mutation cystic fibrosis (CF). The data show that treatment with PTC124 results in statistically significant improvements in the chloride channel function of patients with nonsense-mutation CF. The study was conducted at the Hadassah Hebrew University Hospital in Jerusalem, Israel and sponsored by PTC Therapeutics (PTC).

Patients with CF lack adequate levels of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein, a chloride channel which is required for normal function of the lung, pancreas, liver, and other organs. Nonsense mutations are single-point alterations in the genetic code that prematurely stop the translation process, preventing production of a full-length, functional protein. Patients with nonsense-mutation CF generally make virtually no CFTR protein and thus often have a more severe form of CF. By inducing the production of functional CFTR, PTC124 is addressing the underlying genetic defect responsible for CF. Nonsense mutations are responsible for approximately 10 percent of the cases of cystic fibrosis worldwide. However, in Israel, nonsense mutations are responsible for the majority of CF cases.

This Phase 2 Israeli study enrolled 23 adult patients (median age 25 years) with nonsense-mutation CF. More than 90 percent of patients had severe CF with compromised lung function, pulmonary infection with Pseudomonas or other pathogenic bacteria, and pancreatic insufficiency. Patients were assessed in two 14-day treatment courses of oral PTC124 therapy, the first given at a lower dose and the second given at a higher dose. Results showed that at both dose levels, treatment with PTC124 was associated with statistically significant improv
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