JOHNSON CITY, Tenn., Sept. 14 RxBio, Inc., announces that its lead product, Rx100, a potent radioprotectant as well as radiomitigator, protects against lethal, whole-body radiation when administered before, during, or up to 72 hours after exposure.
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In recent experiments, the efficacy of Rx100 was tested by treating with a single subcutaneous dose at either 48 or 72 hours after lethal, whole-body gamma irradiation. Results at both time points were essentially identical and only slightly lower than what had been seen when the drug was administered at 24-26 hours after radiation exposure.
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Continued extensive testing of Rx100 proves its unique properties in comparison to other drug candidates in the pipeline. Of significance is the fact that Rx100: a) is a small molecule, b) is essentially nontoxic at therapeutic doses, c) has a long shelf life, d) is nonimmunogenic, e) and provides effective treatment of ARS when administered up to three days after injury. There are no other small-molecule radiomitigators described in the scientific literature as effective as Rx100.
Dr. W. Shannon McCool, RxBio's CEO, points out that: "Rx100 is unique among radioprotectants / radiomitigators in that it boosts natural mechanisms that promote and sustain cell survival in almost every cell type and at the same time inhibits the cascade leading to programmed cell death (apoptosis). Thus, Rx100 augments the good and shuts down the bad. While other products shut down essential cellular signaling mechanisms involved in radiation-induced cellular injury and tend to lack specificity and/or may be toxic, Rx100 is a specific activator of natural, nontoxic, protective mechanisms of cell survival and antiapoptosis. Among its actions, Rx100 protects critical stem cells. Rx100 can be formulated for a wide range of patient types--from infants to the elderly - and can be administered either orally or subcutaneously."
In addition, Dr. Gabor Tigyi, RxBio's CSO, comments that: "Rx100 is a potent protector of the GI tract. This drug provides significant protection to the gut from radiation as well as other toxic substances such as cholera toxin. Among its actions, Rx100 maintains the mucosal barrier of the GI tract. It prevents severe diarrhea and the entry of bacterial toxins into the blood stream - both potentially severe side effects."
Several agencies of the Federal Government continue their interest and support in this promising new compound and its unique approach and mechanism.
SOURCE RxBio, Inc.
