OncoGenex Pharmaceuticals Named Life Sciences Company of the Year by LifeSciences Britis...( BOTHELL WA and VANCOUVER April 9 / On...)

BOTHELL, WA, and VANCOUVER, April 9 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - OncoGenex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. ("OncoGenex" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: OGXI), announced today that it has been named the 2009 Life Sciences Company of the Year by LifeSciences British Columbia. This annual award is presented by LifeSciences British Columbia to recognize a local organization that has made outstanding contributions to the development of British Columbia's life sciences industry. This award recognizes a company for execution of business strategies, scientific excellence, leadership and vision and market position/opportunity. The organization also uses this award to increase public awareness and understanding of life sciences in the province.

"We are very pleased to be recognized for this award, especially in light of what was a particularly challenging economic environment in 2008," said Scott Cormack, President and CEO of OncoGenex. "For OncoGenex, 2008 was a tremendously active year as we took measures to prepare for the final stages of clinical development of our lead product candidate, OGX-011, for the treatment of cancer. We released Phase 2 clinical data showing a survival benefit in patients treated with OGX-011 and are working closely with the FDA to develop Phase 3 study designs and protocols defining a registration path for product approval. We also took measures to extend our cash runway, and we have been advancing discussions with potential development partners."

"There is no greater honour than to be recognized by one's peers," added Cormack. "I'd like to thank all the employees at OncoGenex, as this award was earned by each and every one of them through their dedication, hard work and loyalty."

About LifeSciences British Columbia

LifeSciences British Columbia supports and represents the biopharmaceutical, medical device, biopro
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