Print This Story  Email This Story  Save this Link View PR Newswire's RSS Feed  Blogs Discussing this News Release  Search Blogs that Mention this News Release  Click this link to view linked Bookmarking Services Click this link to view linked Blogging Services


Helix BioMedix Receives Key US Patent for its Bioactive Peptides

    BOTHELL, Wash., April 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Helix BioMedix
(HXBM.OB), a developer of synthetic bioactive peptides, today announced the
issuance of U.S. Patent No. 6,875,744 entitled "Short Bioactive Peptides."
The patent covers a vast family of bioactive peptides designed for low cost
synthesis and improved bioactivity.  Specifically, this patent covers the
composition of matter and use for peptides of five to 22 amino acids in length
that consist, in large part, of four specific amino acids.  This patent
significantly expands the Company's technology platform of proprietary
peptides for therapeutic and consumer product applications.
    "Securing additional patent protection for our lead peptides is a
significant milestone for us," stated R. Stephen Beatty, President and CEO.
"Receipt of this patent places Helix and the Company's intellectual property
at the forefront of peptide discovery and development at a time when the world
is turning to peptides for their many and varied uses.  As part of our ongoing
strategy, we continue to aggressively pursue intellectual property rights
based on novel bioactive peptides that have been designed and synthesized by
our scientists and will have the ability to utilize our vast proprietary
library to screen for additional uses of these bioactive molecules."
    Peptides included in this patent form the basis of preclinical programs at
Helix targeted at preventing wound infections and sexually transmitted
diseases.  In addition, this patent extends the Company's worldwide
competitive edge in designing inexpensive peptides, a critical factor for the
consumer goods market.  In total, the Company now has nine issued patents in
the U.S., nine issued foreign patents and four patents pending.  Helix
currently has research applications in such consumer markets as acne, skin
care, wrinkle reduction, deodorants, and oral care.  Based upon activities of
peptides observed in nature, Helix has made advancements in all of these
applications by exploiting the anti-infective and stimulatory properties of
these short bioactive peptides.

    About Helix BioMedix
    Helix BioMedix, Inc. is an early-stage biotechnology company that has a
portfolio of issued patents that covers six distinct classes of peptides,
covering over 100,000 unique peptide sequences. The company's mission is to
become the industry leader in developing and commercializing small proteins
known as bioactive peptides. The antimicrobial and wound healing properties of
these peptides qualify them for inclusion in a wide range of both
pharmaceutical and consumer products. The company is currently focused on the
development of selected peptides as topical anti-infectives and in wound
healing. Non-pharmaceutical applications being pursued by Helix BioMedix
include adjuvants for cosmetics/cosmeceuticals, personal care, plant health,
animal health and wide-spectrum biocides. More information about the company
and its proprietary peptides can be found on the company's website at
http://www.helixbiomedix.com.

    Contact:
     Helix BioMedix, Inc.
     David Kirske, 425-402-8400
     dkirske@helixbiomedix.com
         or
     Investor Relations:
     Cameron Associates
     Alison Ziegler, 212-554-5469
     alison@cameronassoc.com


SOURCE Helix BioMedix, Inc.




Back to Topback to top

Related links:
  • http://www.helixbiomedix.com
    CONTACT:
    David Kirske of Helix BioMedix, Inc.,
    +1-425-402-8400, or dkirske@helixbiomedix.com; or investors,
    Alison Ziegler of Cameron Associates, +1-212-554-5469, or
    alison@cameronassoc.com, for Helix BioMedix, Inc.