PPL THERAPEUTICS: XENOTRANSPLANT COLLABORATION AGREED
September 27, 1996 . PPL Therapeutics plc ("PPL"), one of
the world's leaders in the transgenic production of human proteins for therapeutic and
nutritional use and RPMS Technology Ltd ("RPMSt"), the technology transfer
subsidiary of the Royal Postgraduate Medical School, have initiated a major joint
programme in the field of xenotransplantation. The work will focus initially on heart
transplants using transgenically modified pig organs.
The partners view their research plan as highly complementary, with PPL
contributing its recognised expertise in production of novel transgenic animals, and RPMS
providing research excellence and supporting facilities across a range of relevant areas
to establish a multi-disciplinary programme.
PPL will invest at least ?.5 million in a portfolio of collaborative
projects, within the RPMS Departments of Immunology and Surgery. The study areas will
include molecular engineering of porcine cells to reduce the likelihood of organ
rejection; methods to induce tolerance in the host human; plus generation of the
transgenic animals and examination of transplanted organs in model systems.
The chronic shortage of donor organs for transplantation has led to
serious exploration of the use of an animal species as a source. Such a source of organs
'on demand' could have a major impact in treating end stage kidney and heart failure, and
offer hope to patients on steadily increasing waiting lists. Pigs are acknowledged as the
most appropriate species, reflecting physiological, ethical and practical concerns. These
studies will contribute information valuable to the development of novel therapeutic
approaches in vascular diseases, in addition to advancing the potential for therapeutic
xenotransplantation.
The programme is planned over three years, expanding to five, according
to results, and includes option rights to PPL on intellectual property arising from the
work, together with provision for RPMSt to receive royalties from products developed.
Dr Ron James, Managing Director of PPL Therapeutics said:
"We are convinced that this is the way forward to make effective
transplant therapies available to the largest number of patients needing them. We believe
the combination of PPL's experience in transgenics, with the Royal Postgraduate Medical
School's broad immunological and surgical expertise will ensure the success of this
exciting and ambitious project."
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For further information please contact:
Dr Ron James, Managing Director
PPL Therapeutics plc
Roslin
Edinburgh EH25 9PP
Telephone: +44 (0)131 440 4777
Fax: +44 (0)131 440 4888
Alistair Mckinnon-Musson
Square Mile Communications
11 Gough Square
London EC4A 3DE
Telephone: + 44 (0)171 583 4567
