GAI-122, an investigational injectable nano-emulsion formulated with
AlphaRx's proprietary drug delivery technology, provides significant
hepatoprotection in multiple animal models of acute hepatitis suggesting
that GAI-122 may reduce necro-inflammation and may halt disease
progression to fibrosis or cirrhosis.
MARKHAM, ON, July 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ - AlphaRx Inc. (OTCBB: ALRX) today reported positive preclinical results on GAI-122 injectable nano-emulsion in multiple models of acute hepatitis, an inflammatory liver disease.
GAI-122 significantly reduced Aminotransferase (ALT), an enzyme released into the blood that indicates damage to the liver, following IP administration in three different preclinical models of acute liver injury. Very high levels of ALT are usually due to acute hepatitis or a viral infection.
In the a-Fas model of liver injury, GAI-122 markedly reduced ALT levels by 90% from baseline, where control ALT values were ~22,000 IU/L. Significant efficacy was also demonstrated in the rat TNFa/Gln model and in the Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) model.
"DILI accounts for more than 50% of acute liver failure and there are no satisfactory treatment options currently available. The excellent efficacy data demonstrated by these studies suggest that GAI-122 may represent a potential first line treatment option for patients with liver disease", stated Dr. Michael Weisspapir, MD, PhD, Chief Medical Scientist of AlphaRx.
In October 2008, AlphaRx licensed GAI-122 to Gaia BioPharma. Under the terms of the amended agreement, AlphaRx is eligible to receive milestone payments of up to $50 million for the successful development and commercialization of GAI-122, as well as royalties on worldwide sales. In addition, Gaia BioPharma has assumed all development costs.
About AlphaRx Inc.
AlphaRx is a specialty pharmaceutical company dedicated to de
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