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 Daily Record Article
"New Pathways" Article
Connections Magazine Article
Time Magazine Article
MS'ers Newsletter Article
Health Secrets USA
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada Article
Société canadienne de la sclérose en plaques Article - (En Français)
Journal of The American Academy of Neurology Article
Neurology Now Article
PR Newswire - United Business Media Article
The Evening Times Newspaper Article
The Scotsman Article
Genetic Engineering News Article
Evening Times Online News Article
The South Florida Business Journal Article
Drug Discovery Online Article
ET Online Article
The Lancet Article
Pharma Projects Article
Antviral Agents Bulletin Article
Scientific American Article
Medscape Medical News Article
Time Archive Article
Time Pacific Article
Charcot Stitching Bulletin Article
Charcot Stitching Bulletin Article - (En Français)
Charcot Stitching Bulletin Article: (In Nederlandse Taal)
bio.com Article
MS Canada Article
MS Canada Article - (En Français)
Fondation Charcot Stichting Article
Fondation Charcot Stichting Article - (En Français)
Fondation Charcot Stichting Article - (In Nederlandse Taal)
MS Society Of Canada Bulletin Article
MS Society Of Canada Bulletin Article - (En Français)
BioExchange Article
ChemWeb Article
Germany MS Center Info Article
MS InfoZentrum Article - (Auf Deutsch)
Scientific American Article
Men's Health Article
British Nursing News Online Article
Various Other Published or Featured Articles
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September 16, 2008
Lack of sunshine is health hazard for Scots
By Lachlan Mackinnon
A LACK of sunshine is killing Scots, according to a report.
A leading researcher wants a government campaign to get all of us to take a daily dose of vitamin D to reduce the rate of cancer, multiple sclerosis, diabetes and heart disease. The body makes the vitamin naturally when exposed to sunlight.
But Scotland gets 400 fewer hours of sunshine a year than the south coast of England - which has a far better health record.
The average Scot has a vitamin D level four times lower than their neighbours south of the Border.
Medical researcher Dr Oliver Gillie, who wrote the report, said levels of chronic illness in Glasgow and the west of Scotland - which gets little more sunshine than the Arctic Circle - can't be blamed on poverty alone.
And Orkney and Shetland - which only get 24 per cent of the maximum number of hours of sunshine possible - have the highest prevalence of MS in the world.
Vitamin D deficiency - which is twice as common in Scotland as it is in England - has also been linked to high blood pressure and arthritis.
Chief Medical Officer Dr Harry Burns said the report was an "important contribution" to the national health debate.
In Scotland's Health Deficit: An Explanation and Plan, Gillie says doctors should be able to prescribe "megadoses" of vitamin D.
Mums, for instance, should be given enough to allow them to pass it on to their babies in breast milk.
He reckons tots born around March - when mothers' vitamin D levels are at their lowest - are at a "health disadvantage" and more likely to suffer from juvenile diabetes or MS. Dr Gillie said: "Vitamin D has received little or no attention from policy-makers. "This report calls for urgent action by Scotland's government to take new measures that will give the country its best chance of improving health and of catching up with other European countries with more favourable climates."
Dr Gillie's research involved examining levels of vitamin D across Europe and mortality rates from certain diseases.
And he isn't worried about Scots exposing themselves to a higher risk of skin cancer by stripping off in the sunshine for short periods.
He said: "If you burn, you increase the risk and it's important to avoid doing that. However, if you don't burn, the risk is very little or zero. The risk is very small compared with the risk if you don't expose yourself to the sun.
"Vitamin D protects you against cancers, including melanoma." Scotland's lack of sunshine - with last month being the dullest in almost 30 years - means that the vitamin has to be taken in other ways.
Dr Gillie wants to see supplements added to basic foods such as bread, orange juice and milk.
Scotland's chief medical officer Dr Harry Burns said: "The government has been considering vitamin D and has arranged a meeting of experts for later this year to recommend what further action is required."
Jayne Spink, of the UK MS Society, said: "If vitamin D could prevent the condition, it would be incredibly significant, particularly in Scotland, where rates are very high."
ESPERANZA NEUROPEPTIDE VITAMIN D3
Esperanza has been using their specially developed vitamin D3 as part of it's treatment regime in conjunction with it's revolutionary NeuroPeptide for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It has been Esperanza's opinion that most MS patients are severely lacking in D3 and as such the need to increase the intake of the vitamin has resulted in excellent documentation of results of the Esperanza NeuroPeptide in conjunction with the specially developed Esperanza D3 vitamins.
A recent article in the Daily Record newspaper highlights the vitamin D problem and Esperanza is very happy that the vitamin D problem in Northern Hemisphere countries (due to lack of sunshine) is being seriously looked at.
Esperanza will continue to explore any and all avenues that will help in the treatment and fight against MS.
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 "NEW PATHWAYS" ARTICLE
The Esperanza Homeopathic NeuroPeptide treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) was recently featured in "New Pathways" magazine. Click on the cover in order to read the 4 page article which will also allow you to print the article as well as to email it to others that may be interested. Enjoy the article and please feel free to explore our entire website and read about the sensational results from the Esperanza Homeopathic NeuroPeptide sublingual spray treatment that is quickly becoming appreciated by MS and other neurological disease sufferers worldwide!
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"CONNECTIONS MAGAZINE" ARTICLE
Esperanza Peptide
Esperanza is an appropriate name for a revolutionary new treatment for MS as Esperanza means "HOPE" in Spanish and hope is what all MS sufferers are seeking!
Esperanza NeuroPeptide Homeopathic treatment is a treatment which is claimed to reverse some of the symptoms of MS, though not eradicate them completely. This treatment is now available in Scotland.
Esperanza's Scientific Director David Mundschenk PhD says: "This is the only drug that gives back function in Multiple Sclerosis. It affects ability to walk, motor function, pain, speech, co-ordination and balance."
It is not claimed to be a cure. The treatment is given once a day with 3 sprays under the tongue, then five minutes later 3 further sprays. It must be given every day or the patient goes downhill. It must also be used alongside physiotherapy or other exercise treatment so that weakened muscles can be strengthened.
At the moment, Esperanza NeuroPeptide Homeopathic Peptide is available through the Jan de Vries clinic in Troon, Scotland at cost of around £5,450 for a year's treatment. It is also available as a homeopathic treatment at centres in Ireland, Israel, South Africa, Mexico, Canada, the USA and other areas worldwide once doctors have been trained.
Q: How Does Esperanza NeuroPeptide Homeopathic Peptide Work?
A: The peptide regulates the immune system and allows messages to be conducted along nerves despite the loss of myelin. It works with nicotinic receptors in the brain. It also works against viruses, including the Epstein-Barr virus and prevents cell-to-cell ravaging.
Q: Is It A Cure?
A: No, it is a treatment and needs to be taken every day.
Q: How Do You Take It?
A: With a puffer spray, under the tongue. In the morning, 3 times, then wait 5 minutes, then another 3 times. It must be taken at the same time every day. You must not eat or drink anything for 15 minutes afterwards.
Q: How Does It Get Taken Up By The Body?
A: The neuropeptides are absorbed under the tongue, but Esperanza has a unique additive that multiplies the absorption of the peptides.
Q: What Symptoms Can It Help?
A: 100% get a result with balance and slurred speech. Motor function, ability to walk, pain, co-ordination and fatigue respond well too, to differing degrees in different patients. Dr Kevin Bethel MD CM, Esperanza's Medical Director, says: "I want to make it clear that ‘reverse MS symptoms' does not mean that any one symptom will completely return to normal. Rather, most people get a partial reversal of some or most of their MS symptoms. Function is partially or fully restored, but for some, the functional restoration is dramatic in one area and minor in other areas. It all depends on how much permanent damage has been done to any particular part of the nervous system."
Q: How Fast Does It Work?
A: Balance is the fastest symptom to respond - in around 30 minutes. Co-ordination, reaction time and strength start returning on the first day. Fatigue can take several months to resolve. How fast it works depends on where the damage in the central nervous system is.
Q: What Other Things Need To Be Done As Well?
A: Physiotherapy and physical exercise is very important to regain muscle tone as well as a good healthy diet.
Q: Does It Work For Both Relapsing and Progressive MS?
A: Yes.
Q: Does It Lower The Number of Relapses?
A: Kevin Bethel MD CM says: "My personal experience with the peptide has demonstrated several people who have not had a relapse since starting the Esperanza neuropeptide."
Q: Does It Have Side Effects?
A: None have been reported.
Q: What Research Has Been Done?
A: So far, the Esperanza Research Foundation has conducted ‘open' trials, which do not use placebos. Now they plan to do human double-blind trials in various countries once suitable physicians have been selected, trial protocols worked out, and financing arranged.
Q: Why Isn't Esperanza Available Yet As An Approved Treatment For MS?
A: Esperanza Peptide is on the market as a homeopathic drug. Scientists have been developing it for 23 years, but it has taken all these years to develop the drug and patent its production. Now it will undergo full scientific testing.
For more information contact: Esperanza Peptide, 1 Greenhill, Largs, Ayrshire, KA30 9JY, Scotland
Telephone: 01475 675548 Email: Esperanzapeptide@btinternet.com Website: www.esperanzapeptide.net
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Time Magazine Article
Time Magazine reported in its January 16, 2001 issue that a drug derived from modified cobra venom might be tested at Canadian MS clinics as a treatment for MS in the near future.
Immunokine has been tried in several patients with MS under non-placebo controlled conditions with initial encouraging results. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a PhyloMed Corporation), a biopharmaceutical company founded in 1983, in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation , the company that makes the drug, has applied to Health Canada to test it at several Canadian MS clinics. Additional details will be provided when they become available.
The study of Immunokine was a Phase I trial. This is a short study in which both the people receiving the therapy and the study investigators know the participants are receiving active treatment. The primary outcome is to test for safety of the therapy.
The usual next step would be a Phase II trial in which participants are divided into groups. One group receives active treatment and one receives a placebo (non-active) treatment. Neither the participants nor the physicians who examine them know who is taking which treatment until the code is broken at the end of the study. This is called a double-blind, placebo controlled study. The investigators start to gather data on whether the therapy actually works while still measuring safety.
If results from the Phase II study are positive, the next stage is a Phase III trial. It is a double-blind, placebo controlled study that involves a large number of people, often at many research sites for a number of months. It collects data on safety, the effectiveness of the therapy and side effects. These data are necessary for any submission to Health Canada for evaluation of a therapy for potential approval.
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MS'ers Newsletter Article
MS'ers Newsletter # 152 - JULY, 2006
I just became aware of a 'new' treatment for MS. Like so many others before it, the MS establishment has labeled it as questionable. But this one appears to be different. It is a true homeopathic formula. And this treatment is not administered with a needle thank goodness. A few drops under your tongue instead of a needle. That alone would make it appealing to me. Effective but different seems to be an appropriate description. Unlike the CRAB drugs, which are all variations on immune suppressing Interferon formulas, this is a protein that enables nerves to function once again.
It is called the Esperanza Peptide. From what I've read it is unlike Pycnogenol, in that it has twenty+ years of scientific research behind it and is not set up in a money making scheme. There is actual documentation of the bottom line physical improvement. And unlike Procarin, whatever effectiveness it delivers in symptom relief does not seem to fade after a few weeks.
All in all this seems the most legitimate new approach to controlling the symptoms of MS that I have ever seen. David Mundschenk, the scientific director, at Esperanza doesn't pull any punches. The Esperanza Peptide is not a cure for MS and it won't reverse every symptom. But for certain symptoms such as lower body mobility and strength, slurred speech and balance the symptom can reverse very quickly. The success rate for symptom reversal varies, but is very high for slurring words and cognitive problems of short-term memory loss and the ability to maintain one's balance. The success rate for people being able to get up out of wheelchairs and walk again is also quite high. This is highly dependent on how long the patient has been immobilized and how much muscle rebuilding is necessary. Improvement in walking gate is also quite high as the peptide seems to allow much more freedom and control of leg and lower body muscles. The pain often associated with MS is another symptom that seems to respond quite positively. Unfortunately MS caused vision problems do not seem to respond to the peptide treatment with a predictable improvement. Sorry Ellen, but the research continues and other improvements are expected.
However, at this time the reversals are not permanent. Treatment daily with the peptide is necessary. Well that should not be any big deal. A spray of pleasant tasting liquid under the tongue once or more daily is not a difficult task. In my opinion one aspect that has not been adequately tested is the interaction between the peptide and a patient's diet.
We have been doing an experiment with some in our group who have been finding it difficult to commit themselves to the Lo-fat Diet by having them agree to follow the Lo-fat Diet and take the basic supplements only for four months (120 days). I feel that if they follow through and actually follow the diet for the full 120 days that they will see enough improvement in their lives that they will dedicate themselves to the diet forever. I know from experience that every MS'er will see such an improvement in symptoms and in their general welfare that if they are honest they will change their diet for life.
I wonder what the experience of Esperanza would be using the same time frame? If a patient started using the peptide and got almost immediate symptom relief of, let's say slurred speech, and then later went on the Lo-fat Diet and supplement program, would they be able to stop the peptide without symptom reoccurrence after a period of time on the program?
In other words could the peptide be the immediate symptom relief and the Swank lifestyle changes the permanent symptom relief? An interesting question?
This treatment is going to be almost as expensive as the CRAB drugs but I think it would be worthwhile for those not yet in control of their disease.
This is going to take a lot more looking into by a lot of people. But to me it is always the bottom line. Does it work? Can someone wheelchair bound get up and walk again? Can an MS'er who cannot maintain their balance for more than a few seconds standing, feet together, arms down at their sides and eyes closed suddenly stay upright in that position for several minutes? And how about the MS patient with a tongue from hell, who's slurring of words, makes him totally unable to be understood. Can he suddenly have the diction and voice timber of a professional announcer? The Esperanza peptide people claim it can and does happen with great frequency.
Take a look at the Esperanza web site: www.esperanzapeptide.net and let me know what you think. This looks to me like a real honest to goodness break-through in MS treatment.
Until next time,
John Pageler
MS'ers Newsletter
http://infoonms.bizland.com/index.html
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Health Secrets USA
Health Secrets USA (HSUSA) is focused on researching and incorporating cutting edge
technologies into a strong line of proprietary natural alternative medicines to
address major leading health problems in the world today.
NEWS ITEM: Newest Research on Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Esperanza NeuroPeptide
contact the company by going to their website at:
www.esperanzapeptide.net
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Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada Article
Possible Study of "Cobra" Drug
Time magazine reported in its January 16, 2001 issue that a drug derived from modified cobra venom might be tested at Canadian MS clinics as a treatment for MS in the near future.
Immunokine has been tried in 25 people with MS under non-placebo controlled conditions with initial encouraging results.BioTherapeuitics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corporation), the Florida company that makes the drug, has applied to Health Canada to test it at several Canadian MS clinics. Additional details will be provided when they become available.
The study of Immunokine was a Phase I trial. This is a short study in which both the people receiving the therapy and the study investigators know the participants are receiving active treatment. The primary outcome is to test for safety of the therapy.
The usual next step would be a Phase II trial in which participants are divided into groups. One group receives active treatment and one receives a placebo (non-active) treatment. Neither the participants nor the physicians who examine them know who is taking which treatment until the code is broken at the end of the study. This is called a double-blind, placebo controlled study. The investigators start to gather data on whether the therapy actually works while still measuring safety.
If results from the Phase II study are positive, the next stage is a Phase III trial. It is a double-blind, placebo controlled study that involves a large number of people, often at many research sites for a number of months. It collects data on safety, the effectiveness of the therapy and side effects. These data are necessary for any submission to Health Canada for evaluation of a therapy for potential approval.
Prepared by National Communications and Social Action Department.
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Société canadienne de la sclérose en plaques Article (En Français)
Étude possible sur le venin de cobra
Le magazine Time annonçait dans son numéro du 16 janvier 2001 qu'un médicament à base de venin de cobra modifié pourrait bientôt être mis à l'épreuve dans les cliniques de SP du Canada, comme traitement de la sclérose en plaques.
Immunokine has been tried in 25 people with MS under non-placebo controlled conditions with initial encouraging results. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corporation), the Florida company that makes the drug, has applied to Health Canada to test it at several Canadian MS clinics. Additional details will be provided when they become available.
L'immunokine, expérimentée chez 25 personnes atteintes de SP lors d'une étude contrôlée, à double insu, a donné des résultats encourageants. Phylomed, la compagnie de Floride qui fabrique ce produit, a demandé à Santé Canada d'en faire l'essai dans nos cliniques de SP. D'autres détails vous seront transmis à mesure qu'ils seront portés à notre connaissance.
La première étude sur l'immunokine était de Phase I, soit une courte étude où les participants et les chercheurs savent qui prend la substance active. Le but premier d'une telle étude est de vérifier l'innocuité du médicament.
On passe ensuite habituellement à la Phase II, où les participants sont divisés en deux groupes, dont l'un reçoit le traitement actif, et l'autre, un placebo (substance inactive). Ni les participants ni les médecins examinateurs ne savent qui prend la substance active et qui prend le placebo, avant l'ouverture du code à l'issue de l'étude. C'est ce qu'on appelle une étude contrôlée, à double insu. Les chercheurs commencent alors à réunir des informations sur l'efficacité du médicament tout en continuant de surveiller son innocuité.
Si les résultats de cette deuxième phase sont positifs, on entreprend une étude de Phase III. Contrôlée et à double insu, celle-ci comprend un grand nombre de participants et se déroule dans de nombreux centres de recherche pendant plusieurs mois. Elle permet de recueillir des données sur la sûreté, l'efficacité et les effets secondaires du traitement. Ces données doivent d'ailleurs accompagner toute demande d'homologation d'un médicament à Santé Canada.
Préparé par le service national des Communications et de l'Action sociale.
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Journal of The American Academy of Neurology Article
Neurology 2003;61:528-530
© 2003 American Academy of Neurology
Brief Communications
A randomized controlled study of modified cobratoxin in adrenomyeloneuropathy
H.R. Mundy, MBBS, S.J. Jones, PhD, J.C. Hobart, PhD, M.G. Hanna, PhD and P.J. Lee, MD
From the Charles Dent Metabolic Unit (Drs. Mundy and Lee), Department of Neurophysiology (Dr. Jones), and Department of Clinical Neurology and Neurorehabilitation (Dr. Hobart), National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square; and Muscle and Neurogenetics Section (Dr. Hanna), Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK.
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr. Mundy, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK;
Adrenomyeloneuropathy is a peroxisomal disorder that causes demyelination, with no proven therapy. Oral modified cobratoxin was assessed in a double-blind, randomized, crossover study of eight patients. Treatment was well tolerated.
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Neurology Now Article
A randomized controlled study of modified cobratoxin in adrenomyeloneuropathy
H.R. Mundy, MBBS, S.J. Jones, PhD, J.C. Hobart, PhD, M.G. Hanna, PhD and P.J. Lee, MD
From the Charles Dent Metabolic Unit (Drs. Mundy and Lee), Department of Neurophysiology (Dr. Jones), and Department of Clinical Neurology and Neurorehabilitation (Dr. Hobart), National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square; and Muscle and Neurogenetics Section (Dr. Hanna), Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK.
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr. Mundy, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, UK;
Adrenomyeloneuropathy is a peroxisomal disorder that causes demyelination, with no proven therapy. Oral modified cobratoxin was assessed in a double-blind, randomized, crossover study of eight patients. Treatment was well tolerated.
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PR Newswire - United Business Media Article
Corporation Announces Modified Proteins From Cobra Venom
Supported By The Esperanza Research Foundation
SOUTHERN FLORIDA April 10 /PRNewswire/ -- BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a PhyloMed Corporation), a biopharmaceutical company located in Florida, has developed and patented a series of modified peptides (small proteins) which show promise in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis, Lou Gehrig's Disease ALS/MND, Stroke, Muscular Dystrophy, AMN, Ataxias and Leukodystrophies, Viral Disease, AIDS and Cancer. The Company has pioneered new drug delivery options and is testing an oral spray (patent pending) which eliminates the need for daily injections. The Esperanza Research Foundation is financially supporting the exciting R&D being performed by BioTherapeutics, Inc. in association with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd.
Scientists at Northwestern University Medical School and Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago have discovered that Immunokine, a nontoxic peptide (small protein) derived from cobra venom (known by many researchers as Polypeptide O3 (PPO3) or Peptide -- E (PEP -- E)) and manufactured by BioTherapeutics Inc., is a potent inhibitor of HIV infection in standard laboratory tests. Immunokine worked equally well in a novel invivo model where it prevented HIV infection of human thymus.
To cause infection, HIV needs to gain entry into cells through attachment to receptors on the cell membrane. These receptors are called chemokine receptors. There are two principal types, CCR5 and CXCR4. Different HIV strains use one of these types. A single drug that would block all the chemokine receptors ("tropism-independent") could be more useful, for several reasons, than a mixture of molecules that would have to be used to do the same.
In the assay, Immunokine inhibited by over 90% the infection rate of both of two strains of HIV, one specific to the CCR5 receptor and the other specific for the CXCR4 receptor.
Dr. Bruce Patterson of Northwestern University and Children's Memorial Hospital, Chicago, presented the results at a conference in Keystone, Colorado, on April 7, 2000. In his paper titled, "Novel Biological Approaches to HIV-1 Infection," he wrote, "As a universal 'tropism-independent' inhibitor, Immunokine is a very promising and potent HIV therapeutic that has proven safe in human trials for a different application." He went on to say, "Since many pharmaceutical companies are starting clinical trials with tropism-dependent entry inhibitors...this discovery is quite timely."
This work was supported in part by the American Federation for AIDS Research (AMFAR).
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The Evening Times Newspaper Article
Brave Debbie tells how pioneering treatment eased pain of motor neurone disease.
I couldn't even walk, but Bahamas trip changed everything
A Dying mum who flew to the Bahamas for treatment with an experimental drug today revealed it had transformed her life.
Debbie Christie, 34, was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last December and was given only months to live.
Before flying out for the treatment involving a neuronal peptide drug, Debbie was in constant pain, couldn't even lift her head and talking caused her jaw to lock.
But after one day of treatment the pain lessened and she was able to move her hips for the first time in months.
By the last day of the five-day course she could walk along the length of the swimming pool at her hotel without any help.
She said: "I've been taking medication for a year but this is the first time I haven't been in pain".
"There haven't been any side effects at all"
"I don't know what this will mean for my life expectancy but I feel much more positive"
Debbie and her husband Colin of Girdle Toll, Irvine raised cash to fly out to the Bahamas after reading about trials into the drug Alpha-Immunokine Peptide.
Through appeals in the Evening Times and fundraising events they raised the £8,000 needed to pay for Debbie to take part in the trials.
It involved getting three injections of the peptide a day, with Colin and Debbie's sister Michelle acting as carers.
Debbie, who has two children, Lauren 12, and Colin 16, said "On the first day I had to do a test involving pegs. The first time I could only get five out of nine pegs with my right hand and seven with my left hand".
"I felt better straight after the treatment"
"I had a good night's sleep that night which is a first. Normally I wake up because I to turn in my sleep and my hips won't let me."
"That night I was turning myself and Colin and Michelle were open-mouthed when I lifted my own head and took a drink from a can of soda. Normally Colin has to give me a cup and I sip the drink with a straw".
"By the sixth day I could walk from one end of the pool to the other. Before I could only walk a few steps with Colin's help.
"It seems like small things but they're very important to us".
Debbie, who has been given a year's supply of the drug hopes it will soon be available in the U.K."
She said, "I had a good day every day I was there and that hasn't happened for about two years".
"It's not right that people are suffering when they really don't have to".
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The Scotsman Article
TERMINALLY ILL MOTHER PRAISES EXPERIMENTAL DRUG
A terminally ill mother who flew to the Bahamas to receive a radical new treatment for her degenerative neurological condition has claimed the drug - which is experimental in the UK - has transformed her life.
Debbie Christie, 34, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) last December and told that she could expect to live for just a few months.
Before flying to the Caribbean for the treatment involving a drug derived from cobra venom, Mrs Christie was in constant pain, could not lift her head and talking caused her jaw to lock.
However, after one day of the new treatment the pain lessened and she was able to move her hips for the first time in months, she said.
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Genetic Engineering News Article
PEPTIDE DRUG ORAL SPRAY DELIVER BREAKTHROUGH
BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a PhyloMed Corporation), a biopharmaceutical company founded in 1983, in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation is seeking to guide peptide-drug delivery away from the needle. The company has recently developed and patented a unique oral delivery system in a spray form, facilitating rapid and efficient absorption of the drug through mucosal surfaces in the mouth.
The company's technology has been developed in tandem with their proprietary drug called a-immunokine (Immunokine), a small (~8 kDa) versatile peptide purified from cobra venom (naja naja siamensis). Alpha-Immunokine (a-immunokine), is presently being targeted as the company's focal area of treatment, that being Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and other Neurological diseases. However, a-immunokine recently attracted considerable attention at a recent Keystone symposium as a novel HIV inhibitor, which prevented HIV infection of human thymus tissue in both in vitro an vivo models.
"The technology behind the drug's manufacturing process permits its interaction with detergent resulting in an oral delivery that exceeds the efficiency of many oral systems" says a company spokesman who anticipates that clinical trials of the technology will begin in the near future.
"The Health Protection Branch in Canada and the FDA have accepted the evidence of our approach to drug delivery, primarily in the case of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)" he adds.
"Alpha Immunokine is the first drug of this delivery type for MS patients, and it also shown promise in cases of Olivopontocerebeller Atrophy (OPCA), Post Stroke (PS), Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS), Motor Neurone Diseases (MND), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Combined Lyme Positive Motor Neurological Disorder (COMB/LYME), Adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) and other diseases/ailments which we hope to be able to treat with our newly developed oral spray delivery system very soon.
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Evening Times Online News Article
Debbie's Courage
The courage of young mum Debbie Christie has shown in her battle with Motor Neurone Disease and it is truly inspirational.
Sheer determination (and her Neuronal Peptide medication) has won her another Christmas with her family and they will cherish it forever.
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The South Florida Business Journal Article
Multiple sclerosis, HIV and peripheral neuropathy, a painful side effect from diabetes, may soon come under attack by the venom of the deadly and much feared Thailand Cobra.
"A new drug derived from the cobra venom is showing great scientific promise against MS and sister diseases affecting the nervous and immune systems,"
Biotherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a PhyloMed Corporation), a biopharmaceutical company founded in 1983, in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation has synthesized a harmless peptide (a small protein) from the snake's venom to act as a kind of decoy. Attacks by immune system cells on myelin - the fatty material surrounding nerve fibers - disrupt signals between nerve cells to create characteristic MS lesions and paralysis. Neurotoxins from cobra venom paralyze nerve cells in much the same way.
According to the company, by binding to nerve cell receptors as a modified peptide instead of as a toxin, the venom-derived drug, called Immunokine, morphs into a therapeutic agent that can reverse MS' debilitating effects.
Human clinical trials are slated for early fall and will target MS and adrenomyeloneuropathy, a progressive genetic disorder of the adrenal gland that results in nervous system deterioration.
"We have spent more than $6 million in research and development," a spokesman for the company said. The privately held company has private stock investors and the scientists take shares of stock as a form of payment for their efforts. This way any and all money goes to R&D and the progression of the drugs in the pharmaceutical development pipeline. The company has two patents granted and various patents pending.
The Company is quick to point out that while "snake oil" is used to describe old-time quack remedies, use of snake venom is not new to the pharmaceutical industry.
Merck Pharmaceuticals manufactures an anticoagulant, a derivative from the U.S. Western Diamondback rattlesnake, and Knoll Pharmaceuticals (part of Nestle Co.) manufactures ANCROD, another anticoagulant. Ventech, an Argentine pharmaceutical company, manufactures an anti-tumor serum from a South American rattlesnake.
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Drug Discovery Online Article
Small Protein Drug Inhibits HIV Infection in Lab Tests
Researchers at Northwestern University Medical School and Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago discovered that Immunokine (a drug name and terminology conceived, and introduced by, BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corporation), a nontoxic peptide (small protein) derived from cobra venom and manufactured by BioTherapeutics, Inc. is a potent inhibitor of HIV infection in standard laboratory tests. Immunokine was also effective in a novel in vivo model, where it prevented HIV infection of human thymus.
In order to cause infection, HIV must enter cells by attaching to receptors on the cell membrane called chemokine receptors. There are two principal types of chemokine receptors, CCR5 and CXCR4, which are used by different HIV strains. In the assay, Immunokine inhibited the infection rate of both strains of HIV (one specific to the CCR5 receptor and the other specific for the CXCR4 receptor) by over 90%.
According to Bruce Patterson of Northwestern University and Children's Memorial Hospital, "As a universal 'tropism-independent' inhibitor, Immunokine is a very promising and potent HIV therapeutic that has proven safe in human trials for a different application."
This work was supported in part by the American Federation for AIDS Research (AMFAR).
BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corporation) is a biopharmaceutical company that has developed and patented a series of modified peptides (small proteins) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation which show promise in the treatment of AIDS, multiple sclerosis, viral disease, and cancer. The company has developed new drug delivery options and is testing an patented oral spray that eliminates the need for daily injections.
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The Lancet Article
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ET Online Article
Who can blame Motor Neurone Disease (MND) sufferer Debbie Christie for trying a treatment not available in this
country (currently only available from The Bahamas) to relieve her constant pain and symptoms from MND/ALS?
It appears the drug is working for her. And if it's improving her quality of life, no wonder she thinks it's worth it.
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Pharma Projects Article
The Esperanza Research Foundation Funding
Exciting BioTherapeutics Inc. Research & Development Of New Drug Technology
BioTherapeutics, Inc.
Has four divisions; human, veterinary, dental/dermatology and R&D develops therapeutic agents for use against human and animal disease. and owns two major enabling technologies.
BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a PhyloMed Corporation), a biopharmaceutical company founded in 1983, in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation has a platform technology that permits the production of hundreds of protein-based drug candidates. Investigations are conducted in all areas of medicine.
Founded in 1983, BioTherapeutics, Inc. is a bio-pharmaceutical company based in Florida. The Company has a broad base of interests encompassing every form of disease. Staffed by scientists from diverse disciplines, a solid foundation has been laid on which exciting therapeutics will be developed. Such diverse talents create a single entity with a single focus - to develop novel approaches to the treatment of disease.
The Company's technology has been in development for over 20 years. During this period extensive research and development has been undertaken in its' areas of interest. The organization now seeks to enter into clinical studies and is ready to submit to licensing authorities. Rooted firmly in the treatment of viral and neurological disorders the company's first drug will be for the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis, a disease of unknown etiology.
Enabling Technologies
The 'peptide technology' permits the development of hundreds of novel therapeutic proteins. Essentially, BioTherapeutics, Inc. takes proteins, denatures them by chemical modification and identifies novel applications for them. The Company also has the ability to generate such peptides by genetic engineering and protein synthesis.
BioTherapeutics, Inc. and the U.S. Army have recently entered into a CRADA whereby genes isolated by the Military will be made available to the Company. This agreement serves to provide new drug candidates while, at the same time, provide for supply requirements. So far they have identified 6 new antiviral compounds, 3 compounds for use in neurological/neuromuscular disorders and several others which have demonstrated anti-tumor properties.
Other modified proteins are being identified which will have application to the treatment of diabetes, incontinence and muscular dystrophy. The first of these novel therapeutic peptides is called, Immunokine, a modified protein derived from a neuroactive anticholinergic molecule. The second technology is called the Micro Emulsion Technology (MET). MET is a novel delivery system based on glycerine spheres. Glycerine is an FDA approved wound healing agent. Consistent with this recognized quality, the MET displays excellent healing properties. It is also able to encapsulate small molecules and large proteins providing a very stable delivery vehicle. The Company successfully field tested its first drug in this delivery format. Antibodies have also been stably incorporated into this unique system.
Text
a-Immunokine-NNS03 is an orally-available, oxidized derivative of alpha-cobratoxin, which was under development by BioTherapeutics, Inc. for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS).It had affinity for nicotinic, CCR5 and CXCR4 receptors.
Clinical
In trials in 25 MS patients, a-Immunokine-NNS03 100microgram/ml by injection up to 4x/day produced disease stabilization and EDSS score improvement in up to 95 of patients, respectively. A Canadian Phase I/II trial was placed on hold and a UK Phase I trial in adrenomyeloneuropathy was recently successfully completed. An FDA IND was expected to be filed for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis by Aug 2001. It was also tested in Chile in prostate cancer patients.
Preclinical
In animal models, it prevented HIV infection of human thymus (Scrip Daily Online, 1 Jun 2000, S00666946). Updated by RS on 17/4/2001.
Therapeutic Use
N7A Multiple sclerosis treatment
K6Z Anticancer, other
N11Z Neurological
J5A Antiviral, anti-HIV
Mechanism of Action
ACH-N-AN: Nicotinic antagonist: Receptor, Transmitter, Nicotinic antagonist: Nicotinic receptor antagonist: Cholinergic nicotinic antagonist: ACh N antagonist: Acetylcholine nicotinic antagonist: R-T-ACH-N-AN| CK-CC-5-AN: CC chemokine receptor 5 antagonist: Receptor, Biochemical, CC chemokine receptor 5 antagonist: CCR5 antagonist: R-B-CK-CC-5-AN| CK-CX-4-AN: CXC chemokine receptor 4 antagonist: Receptor, Biochemical, CXC chemokine receptor 4 antagonist: CXCR4 antagonist: R-B-CK-CX-4-AN|
Route of Administration
A-PO: Alimentary, po P-UN: Parenteral, general
Drug Name
a-Immunokine-NNS03
Synonyms
AIMMUNOKINENNS03;
Immunokine, BioTherapeutics;
IMMUNOKINEBIOTHERAPEUTICS
Origin of Material
CH-SE: Chemical, semisynthetic
Publication Date
16 May 2003
Product Status
N7A:ACH-N-AN:N:No Development Reported
K6Z:UN:N:No Development Reported
N11Z:ACH-N-AN:N:No Development Reported
J5A:CK-CC-5-AN CK-CX-4-AN:N:No Development Reported
Source
Pharmaprojects © Copyright PJB Publications Ltd.
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Antviral Agents Bulletin Article
News article, Nov. 2000, p. 333
"Cobra Venom Peptides Proves Active Against Multiple Sclerosis, HIV, Herpesviruses and HPV"
BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/aPhylomed Corp), in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation has developed a series of modified peptides derived from cobra snake venom, including Immunokine, with potential for treatment of HIV, herpesvirus, human papillomavirus (HPV) and other viral infections, in addition to multiple sclerosis and cancer indications. Immunokine (a-Immunokine-NNS03), derived from alpha-cobratoxin by controlled oxidation, appears to be a universal tropism-independent inhibitor of HIV-related chemokine receptors and is currently in investigator-initiated clinical trials for treatment of HIV-infection. The drug has already shown safety and indications of efficacy in clinical trials conducted for over 20 years for another indication, multiple sclerosis, with no reports of adverse reactions either at the site of injection of elsewhere. The proprietary toxin protein oxidation process used to generate modified toxin peptides results in molecules which lack measurable toxicity. Since they are already denatured, the molecules are extremely stable and resistant to heat, providing a long shelf life. Drug stability at room temperature has been demonstrated at over four years, and the peptides can be manufactured relatively inexpensively. alpha-cobratoxin is purified from the venom of the Thai cobra, Naja naja siamensis, and is composed of 71 amino acids. The toxin recognizes the same receptors as nicotine but has the opposite effects. This toxin targets the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in nerve and muscle tissues, and functions by preventing depolarization of post-synaptic membranes through regulation of ion channels. Unlike other toxins, e.g., botulinum, tetanus or ricin, alpha-cobratoxin has no enzymatic activity. alpha-cobratoxin (amino acid residues 30-40) shows homology with the sequences of HIV gp120 and rabies virus glycoprotein.
Immunokine, derived from alpha-cobratoxin, has been shown to inhibit infection of lymphocytes by both HIV and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV); to prevent infection of mice by Semliki Forest and various herpesviruses; and has shown greater in vitro activity than acyclovir against five herpesviruses. Clinical studies have shown indications of efficacy for treatment of genital herpes and genital warts (human papillomavirus). Dr. T. North, University of Montana, has shown that Immunokine in vitro inhibits FIV replication intracellularly, so its mechanism of action is distinct from competition for a common neurotoxin/FIV receptor, as might be inferred from the literature. Preliminary tissue culture studies show that infection with HIV-1IIIB is reduced when the oxidized peptide is administered prior to infection. The company is planning to first develop and test Immunokine for viral indications, particularly for treatment of FIV infection in domesticated cats, a disease for which no treatment is currently available. This would also serve as a model for treatment of HIV. In recent studies with FIV and feline leukaemia virus (FLV), over 80% of treated cats became virus-negative (undetectable by PCR), and showed no residual virus. In situ PCR studies have shown a decrease in HIV transcriptional activity. In vitro experiments are being designed to compare Immunokine to AZT and AZT plus a protease inhibitor. Other studies by Sythelabo (Pasteur Institute) and Syntex (now merged into Hoffmann-La Roche) have confirmed activity against HIV. Dr. B. Patterson, Northwestern University Medical School and Children's Memorial Hospital (both in Chicago, IL), and collaborators have reported that Immunokine is a potent inhibitor of HIV in various in vitro assays and was effective in a novel in vivo model for prevention of HIV infection of the thymus. Immunokine inhibited by over 90% the infection rate of two different strains of HIV, one specific for the CCR5 chemokine receptor and the other specific for the CXCR4 chemokine receptor. This indicates that Immunokine can block both types of chemokine receptors and is tropism-independent. A single molecule active against multiple HIV-related chemokine receptors could have advantages over a mixture or cocktail of drugs, each specific for particular chemokine receptors.
A clinical trial conducted in Chile in 1995 evaluated Immunokine administered as a topical cream and by injection for treatment of genital herpes (herpes simplex virus type 2 or HSV-2), oral herpes (HSV-1), and herpes zoster (varicella-zoster virus) infections. The company reports, Relief from neuritic pain was the first obvious effect...There were no reports of any side effects and a significant number of patients were cured. In vitro activity of Immunokine against herpes viruses was reported as early as 1979, and in vivo protection against infection in suckling mice injected with HSV-1 was reported in 1983. In vitro studies conducted by the Antiviral Research Branch, National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID, NIH), and Syntex Corp. (now merged into Hoffmann-La Roche) confirmed activity against HSV-1, HSV-2, cytomegalovirus (CMV), vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). IC50 values for Immunokine were similar to those of acyclovir against HSV and CMV. Immunokine was astonishingly more potent than Acyclovir against Epstein-Barr virus in nanomolar concentrations about 1,800-fold more potent. No activity with Immunokine has been observed against respiratory viruses. Other studies have shown interference with poliovirus using oxidatively modified toxins. Preliminary clinical studies with Immunokine at the University of Miami have shown promising results in patients with unresolved genital warts treated for six weeks. The company plans to eventually expand into larger and longer genital warts trials. Preliminary studies have also shown encouraging results with topically applied Immunokine for treatment of molluscum contagiosum, a skin disease caused by a poxvirus most often observed in children, young adults and AIDS patients. New drug delivery options for Immunokine and venom-derived peptides are also being developed, such as an oral spray which would eliminate daily injections.
BioTherapeutics, Inc. specializes in the study of peptides (small portions of proteins) derived by denaturation and modification of sources such as cobra venom and generated by recombinant or protein synthesis methods. The company has entered into a five-year Collaborative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute for Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID; Fort Detrick, MD) for access to novel wild-type neurotoxin genes and materials for screening of derived peptides, and has identified six new antiviral compounds, along with others for neurological and cancer indications.
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Scientific American Article
Drug Clinical Trial Information
Immunokine - a drug to combat multiple sclerosis derived from Thailand cobra venom in human clinical trials by BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corp.) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation.
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Medscape Medical News Article
Peptide Drug Derived From Cobra Venom
A series of modified peptides, developed and patented by Southern Florida based BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a PhyloMed Corporation), a biopharmaceutical company founded in 1983, in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, shows promise in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, post stroke, neurological disease, AIDS, viral disease, and cancer, according to the company. Scientists at Northwestern University Medical School and Children's Memorial Hospital in Chicago have discovered that Immunokine, a nontoxic peptide derived from cobra venom (known by many researchers as polypeptide O3 or Peptide E), is a potent inhibitor of HIV infection in standard laboratory tests. The peptide worked equally well in a novel in vivo model, in which it prevented HIV infection of human thymus.
To cause infection, HIV needs to gain entry into cells through attachment to chemokine receptors on the cell membrane. There are 2 principal types of chemokine receptors -- CCR5 and CXCR4 -- and different HIV strains use 1 of these types. A single drug that would block all the chemokine receptors (tropism-independent) could be more useful, for several reasons, than a mixture of molecules that would have to be used to do the same. In the assay, Immunokine inhibited by more than 90% the infection rate of both strains of HIV, 1 specific to the CCR5 receptor and the other specific to the CXCR4 receptor.
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Time Archive Article
Thailand (Monocled) Cobra
The Thailand cobra, which can grow to more than 6 ft., is armed with venom that paralyzes nerves and muscles and eventually causes respiratory arrest. For more than 20 years, BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) Corp in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd.. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation has been conducting clinical trials of Immunokine, a drug derived from Thailand cobra venom, on people with multiple sclerosis. Virtually nontoxic, Immunokine seems to prevent immune cells from attacking and destroying the myelin sheath that protects nerve cells. So far, the results are encouraging. The drug works best on people with the least nerve damage; its only apparent side effect is that it exacerbates PMS in some women. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, hopes to launch a more advanced clinical trial on Canadian MS patients early next year. Meanwhile, a British researcher has recently finished testing the drug's effectiveness against adrenomyeloneuropathy, another debilitating central-nervous-system disorder.
Click here to read the write-up of this trial:
Journal of The American Academy of Neurology Article
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Time Pacific Article
MS Drug Derived From Thailand (Monocled) Cobra
The Thailand cobra can grow to more than 6 ft. For more than 20 years, Biotherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corporation) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd and the International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation has been conducting clinical trials of Immunokine, a drug derived from Thailand cobra venom, on people with multiple sclerosis. The nontoxic, Immunokine seems to prevent immune cells from attacking and destroying the myelin sheath that protects nerve cells.
So far, the results are encouraging. The drug works best on people with the least nerve damage. BioTherapeutics, Inc. in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, hopes to launch a more advanced clinical trial on Canadian MS patients early next year. Meanwhile, a British researcher has recently completed testing the drug's effectiveness against adrenomyeloneuropathy, another debilitating central-nervous-system disorder.
Click here to read the write-up of this trial:
Journal of The American Academy of Neurology Article
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Charcot Stitching Bulletin Article
Possible trials on MS drug derived from Cobra venom
A drug with a venom derivative of the Thailand Cobra which acts on the immune system is proving very useful in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Studies have already been done with the venom of bee stings but until now no significant result have been reported on the bee sting therapy. However, twenty-five patients were treated with a drug manufactured from the venom of cobra it has been reported via MS Canada. The first results of this controlled study have produced encouraging results. The product called "Immunokine" is manufactured by BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, which will ask for the authorization to continue its tests at a greater number of patients.
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Charcot Stitching Bulletin Article - (En Français)
Bulletin : Nouveaux ssays thérapeutiques
(Novembre 2002)
Venin de cobra
Les venins d'animaux agissent sur le système immunitaire et certains d'entre eux dans un sens qui pourrait être utile pour freiner l'évolution de la SEP. Des ssays sont en cours avec le venin d'abeille mais jusqu'à ssays aucun résultat significatif n'a été rapporté.
Vingt-cinq patients ont été ssays avec un ssaysine fabriqué à partir du venin de cobra au Canada. Les premiers ssaysine de cette ssay contrôlée à double insu semblent avoir donné des ssaysine encourageants. Le produit appelé "ssaysine" est fabriqué par la firme BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) qui a demandé l'autorisation de poursuivre ses ssays chez un plus grand nombre de patients.
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Charcot Stitching Bulletin Article: (In Nederlandse Taal)
Foundation Charcot Stichting
Nieuwsbrief : Nieuwe therapeutische tests
(November 2002)
Cobragif
Gif van dieren werkt in op het immuunsysteem. Van sommige dieren zou het gif nuttig kunnen zijn om de evolutie van MS af te remmen. Er zijn onderzoeken aan de gang met bijengif, maar tot dusver is nog geen enkel relevant resultaat gemeld.
Vijfentwintig patiënten zijn behandeld met een geneesmiddel op basis van gif van cobra's in Canada. De eerste resultaten van dit dubbelblind gecontroleerde onderzoek lijken bemoedigend. Het product, "Immunokine" genaamd, wordt gemaakt door de firma BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corp.) die toelating heeft gevraagd om verdere proeven uit te voeren bij een groter aantal patiënten.
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bio.com Article
The Esperanza Research Foundation Forms Funding Links With Biotherapeutics Inc. To Explore The Advancement Of Drug Technology With A Focus On Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
- Has four divisions; human, veterinary, dental/dermatology and R&D
- Develops therapeutic agents for use against human and animal disease.
- Owns two major enabling technologies.
- Has a platform technology that permits the production of hundreds of protein-based drug candidates.
- Investigations are conducted in all areas of medicine.
Founded in 1983, the BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corp.) is a bio-pharmaceutical company based in Southern Florida. The Company has a broad base of interests encompassing every form of disease. Staffed by scientists from diverse disciplines, a solid foundation has been laid on which exciting therapeutics will be developed. Such diverse talents create a single entity with a single focus - to develop novel approaches to the treatment of disease.
The Company's technology has been in development for over 20 years. During this period extensive research and development has been undertaken in its' areas of interest. The organization now seeks to enter into clinical studies and is ready to submit to licensing authorities. Rooted firmly in the treatment of viral and neurological disorders the company's first drug will be for the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis, a disease of unknown etiology. Enabling technologies The 'peptide technology' permits the development of hundreds of novel therapeutic proteins. Essentially, BioTherapeutics, Inc. takes proteins, denatures them by chemical modification and identifies novel applications for them. The Company also has the ability to generate such peptides by genetic engineering and protein synthesis.
BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corp.) and the U.S. Army have recently entered into a CRADA whereby genes isolated by the Military will be made available to the Company. This agreement serves to provide new drug candidates while, at the same time, provide for supply requirements. So far they have identified 6 new antiviral compounds, 3 compounds for use in neurological/neuromuscular disorders and several others which have demonstrated antitumor properties.
Other modified proteins are being identified which will have application to the treatment of diabetes, incontinence and muscular dystrophy. The first of these novel therapeutic peptides is called, Immunokine, a modified protein derived from a neuroactive anticholinergic molecule. The second technology is called the Micro Emulsion Technology (MET). MET is a novel delivery system based on glycerine spheres. Glycerine is an FDA approved wound healing agent. Consistent with this recognized quality, the MET displays excellent healing properties. It is also able to encapsulate small molecules and large proteins providing a very stable delivery vehicle. The Company successfully field tested its first drug in this delivery format. Antibodies have also been stably incorporated into this unique system.
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MS Canada Article
Time Magazine reported that a drug derived from modified cobra venom might be tested at Canadian MS clinics as a treatment for MS in the future.
Immunokine has been tried in several patients with MS under non-placebo controlled conditions with initial encouraging results. The company that makes the drug may soon apply to Health Canada to test it at several Canadian MS clinics. Additional details will be provided when they become available.
The study of Immunokine was a Phase I trial. This is a short study in which both the people receiving the therapy and the study investigators know the participants are receiving active treatment. The primary outcome is to test for safety of the therapy.
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MS Canada Article - (En Français)
Étude possible sur le venin de cobra
Le magazine Timeannonçaitdans son numéro du 16 janvier 2001 qu'un médicament à base de venin de cobra modifié pourrait bientôt être mis à l'épreuve dans les cliniques de SP du Canada, comme traitement de la sclérose en plaques.
L'immunokine , expérimentée chez 25 personnes atteintes de SP lors d'une etude contrôlée, à double insu, a donné des résultats encourageants. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.), la compagnie de Floride qui fabrique ce produit, a demandé à Santé Canada d'en permettre l'essai dans nos cliniques de SP. D'autres détails vous seront transmis à mesure qu'ils seront portés à notre connaissance.
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BioExchange Article
Immunokine, a new drug will be for the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis, a disease of unknown etiology.
Funding for R&D provided from The Esperanza Research Foundation
BioTherapeutics, Inc. - Founded in 1983, is a bio-pharmaceutical company based in Southern Florida. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, has a broad base of interests encompassing every form of disease.
Staffed by scientists from diverse disciplines, a solid foundation has been established upon which exciting therapeutics are being developed. Such diverse talents create a single entity with a single focus - to develop novel approaches to the treatment of disease. The Company's technology has been in development since 1983. During this period extensive research and development has been undertaken in its areas of interest. The organization now seeks to enter into clinical studies and is ready to submit to licensing authorities. Rooted firmly in the treatment of viral and neurological disorders the company's first drug, Immunokine, will be for the treatment of progressive multiple sclerosis, a disease of unknown etiology.
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Fondation Charcot Stichting Article
Bulletin: New Therapeutic Tests
(November 2002)
Possible trials on MS drug derived from Cobra venom.
A drug with a venom derivative of the Thailand Cobra which acts on the immune system is proving very useful in the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
Studies have already been done with the venom of bee stings but until now no significant result have been reported on the bee sting therapy. However, twenty-five patients were treated with a drug manufactured from the venom of cobra it has been reported via MS Canada. The first results of this controlled study have produced encouraging results. The product called "Immunokine" is manufactured by BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, which will ask for the authorization to continue its tests at a greater number of patients.
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Fondation Charcot Stichting Article - (En Français)
Bulletin : Nouveaux ssays thérapeutiques
(Novembre 2002)
Venin de cobra
Les venins d'animaux agissent sur le système immunitaire et certains d'entre eux dans un sens qui pourrait être utile pour freiner l'évolution de la SEP. Des ssays sont en cours avec le venin d'abeille mais jusqu'à ssays aucun résultat significatif n'a été rapporté.
Vingt-cinq patients ont été ssays avec un ssaysine fabriqué à partir du venin de cobra au Canada. Les premiers ssaysine de cette ssay contrôlée à double insu semblent avoir donné des ssaysine encourageants. Le produit appelé "ssaysine" est fabriqué par la firme BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) qui a demandé l'autorisation de poursuivre ses ssays chez un plus grand nombre de patients.
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Fondation Charcot Stichting Article - (In Nederlandse Taal)
Nieuwsbrief : Nieuwe therapeutische tests
(November 2002)
Cobragif
Gif van dieren werkt in op het immuunsysteem. Van sommige dieren zou het gif nuttig kunnen zijn om de evolutie van MS af te remmen. Er zijn onderzoeken aan de gang met bijengif, maar tot dusver is nog geen enkel relevant resultaat gemeld.
Vijfentwintig patiënten zijn behandeld met een geneesmiddel op basis van gif van cobra's in Canada. De eerste resultaten van dit dubbelblind gecontroleerde onderzoek lijken bemoedigend. Het product, "Immunokine" genaamd, wordt gemaakt door de firma BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corp.) die toelating heeft gevraagd om verdere proeven uit te voeren bij een groter aantal patiënten.
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MS Society Of Canada Bulletin Article
Update Bulletin
January 22, 2001
The following provides information about recent articles in the news media concerning multiple sclerosis.
Possible Study of 'Cobra' Drug
Time magazine reported in its January 16, 2001 issue that a drug derived from modified cobra venom might be tested at Canadian MS clinics as a treatment for MS in the near future.
Immunokine has been tried in 25 people with MS under non-placebo controlled conditions with initial encouraging results. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.), the Southern Florida company that makes the drug, has applied to Health Canada to test it at several Canadian MS clinics. Additional details will be provided when they become available.
The study of Immunokine was a Phase I trial. This is a short study in which both the people receiving the therapy and the study investigators know the participants are receiving active treatment. The primary outcome is to test for safety of the therapy.
The usual next step would be a Phase II trial in which participants are divided into groups. One group receives active treatment and one receives a placebo (non-active) treatment. Neither the participants nor the physicians who examine them know who is taking which treatment until the code is broken at the end of the study. This is called a double-blind, placebo controlled study. The investigators start to gather data on whether the therapy actually works while still measuring safety.
If results from the Phase II study are positive, the next stage is a Phase III trial. It is a double-blind, placebo controlled study that involves a large number of people, often at many research sites for a number of months. It collects data on safety, the effectiveness of the therapy and side effects. This data is necessary for any submission to Health Canada for evaluation of a therapy for potential approval.
Prepared by National Communications and Social Action Department
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MS Society Of Canada Bulletin Article - (En Français)
Communication médicale
Le 22 janvier 2001
Voici certaines informations sur des sujets reliés à la SP, qui ont récemment fait la manchette.
Étude possible sur le venin de cobra
Le magazine Time annonçait dans son numéro du 16 janvier 2001 qu'un médicament à base de venin de cobra modifié pourrait bientôt être mis à l'épreuve dans les cliniques de SP du Canada, comme traitement de la sclérose en plaques.
Immunokine has been tried in 25 people with MS under non-placebo controlled conditions with initial encouraging results. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.), the Florida company that makes the drug, has applied to Health Canada to test it at several Canadian MS clinics. Additional details will be provided when they become available.
L'immunokine, expérimentée chez 25 personnes atteintes de SP lors d'une étude contrôlée, à double insu, a donné des résultats encourageants. BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.), la compagnie de Floride qui fabrique ce produit, a demandé à Santé Canada d'en faire l'essai dans nos cliniques de SP. D'autres détails vous seront transmis à mesure qu'ils seront portés à notre connaissance.
La première étude sur l'immunokine était de Phase I, soit une courte étude où les participants et les chercheurs savent qui prend la substance active. Le but premier d'une telle étude est de vérifier l'innocuité du médicament.
On passe ensuite habituellement à la Phase II, où les participants sont divisés en deux groupes, dont l'un reçoit le traitement actif, et l'autre, un placebo (substance inactive). Ni les participants ni les médecins examinateurs ne savent qui prend la substance active et qui prend le placebo, avant l'ouverture du code à l'issue de l'étude. C'est ce qu'on appelle une étude contrôlée, à double insu. Les chercheurs commencent alors à réunir des informations sur l'efficacité du médicament tout en continuant de surveiller son innocuité.
Si les résultats de cette deuxième phase sont positifs, on entreprend une étude de Phase III. Contrôlée et à double insu, celle-ci comprend un grand nombre de participants et se déroule dans de nombreux centres de recherche pendant plusieurs mois. Elle permet de recueillir des données sur la sûreté, l'efficacité et les effets secondaires du traitement. Ces données doivent d'ailleurs accompagner toute demande d'homologation d'un médicament à Santé Canada.
Préparé par le service national des Communications et de l'Action sociale.
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ChemWeb Article
Immunokine Drug Targets Multiple Sclerosis
Funding for R&D provided from The Esperanza Research Foundation
Developed by BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.), in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, Immunokine is used for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). One out of every two thousand or so Americans alone will be affected by the disease yearly. This disease is recognizable by the matrix of scar-like plaques of interlocked astrocyte cells which replace the myelin sheath. Symptoms include chronic fatigue, lack of coordination, muscle weakness and tremor. MS at this point is not curable, but hopefully, Immunokine will be a treatment much like insulin is for diabetics.
The nicotinic acetylcholine receptor in nerve and muscle tissue is the drugs main target. The drug is self administered, previoulsy through injection but recently made available to take orally. The previous protocol of self administered injections were taken as many as four times a day. Each injection was 100 ug/ml. The injections are now being replaced with a novel and patented once a day sublingual spray.
Immunokine-NNSO3, commonly know as Immunokine, is derived from alpha-cobratoxin. Through oxidation the protein, alpha-cobratoxin, is changed to Immunokine. This chemical process, which BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.) holds a patent to, created a drug with many desirable characteristics. The drug has no measurable toxicity, but is still able to complete its task by attaching and affecting nicotine receptors. Being that Immunokine is a self administered drug, the inability to overdose is a pleasant safety measure. Also Immunokine is technically denatured making it stable and heat resistant, giving it a long shelf life.
Immunokine has been promisingly affective with little or no side affects. Which is very promising considering the patients often have several allergies due to immune system dysfunction. The drug is more affective the earlier it is taken in the progression of MS. Though, if taking Copaxone ,a drug treatment for reduction of relapses in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, in the past the Immunokine will show no positive treatment. It helps with pain relief in legs and arms, noting that relief came at times as soon as 15 to 20 minutes after administration. Second, this debilitating disease leaves many MS Sufferers having to use walking aids or wheel chairs in an effort to be mobile, due to a loss in coordination. Immunokine enables a restoration of a sense of balance. Those on the drug have even reported that their migraines seem to lessen or become non-existent. Still ,though, the FDA has yet to approve the drug for use in America. All the clinical tests and trials by BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/ Phylomed Corp.), in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and The International Centre of Excellence, Ltd. and funded through The Esperanza Research Foundation, are taking place outside the U.S., in Canada, South America, The Carribean and in Europe.
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MS InfoZentrum Article
Immunokine Peptide - New Medicine for MS
Immunokine Peptide (translated from German text article)
Immunokine (a-Immunokine-NNS03) is a drug developed by BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a Phylomed Corp.) used for the treatment of progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS). BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a as Phylomed Corp.) in conjunction with Esperanza Peptide Ltd. and the International Centre Of Excellence Ltd. (Grand Bahama) are conducting long term investigations in Multiple Sclerosis with Immunokine. The company has conducted these studies in MS patients (from U.S., Canada and Europe) for over 20 years.
These patients (n= 25) self-administered Immunokine injections as many as 4 times daily. The injectable dosing has now been replaced by a once a day patented sublingual delivery format. There have been no reports of adverse reactions. This is notable given these patients often present with several allergies probably due to immune system dysfunction. Generally it has been observed that, in the majority of cases, disease stabilization is achieved in up to 95% of patients reporting improvement in certain clinical symptoms with a reported improvement in their EDSS (Kurtzke, 1983). Objective testing supports these observations. While this investigation was not placebo-controlled it presented an opportunity to develop criteria which could be employed in clinical trials. It also represents an opportunity to monitor these patients over time for continued therapeutic benefits.
Effectiveness
Peripheral pain (in legs and arms) is the first symptom to respond. Relief from pain can be felt with in 10 - 20 minutes following the dosing of Immunokine. Some patients report that migraines are also resolved. This observation supports the experience of pain reduction in patients suffering from deep neuritic pain associated with Shingles. It is not implied that MS patients will not experience headaches but the severity may be reduced.
Analysis of the patient reports indicated that the second symptom to respond was chronic fatigue. Many patients required several hours sleep in the afternoon. This improvement would, on average, be apparent 6 to 8 weeks following the commencement of Immunokine therapy. Patients have described that following strenuous activity additional dosing assist in recovery and prevent the onset of severe fatigue.
The third symptom which responds is balance. This symptom can be so devastating that the patient is confined to a wheelchair or as the very least requires walking aids. With the restoration of a sense of balance the patient can regain their independence. The time required for improvement is proportional to the period of time the facility was lost and the duration of the disease. The level of improvement is very much dependent on the damage to nerve cells in the brain. On average, an improvement is expected within 8 - 12 months and continuing improvement is seen in patients who have regained the ability to walk, run and swim. Similar improvements are seen in patients with slurred speech, sensory difficulties (perception of hot and cold, sight problems). What is notable is that eyesight once lost may not be recovered or may require long periods of treatment prior to a return of function.
Few Side Effects
What is important is that there are few side effects and these may not be described as deleterious and patients cannot overdose. It appears to be effective in patients with either relapsing/remitting or the progressive condition. Patients on drugs for other conditions or symptoms have experienced no complications even when combined with other biologics (Avonex). None of the side effects associated with the interferons have been observed in Immunokine treated patients and there are no tolerance problems. Patients respond on doses of 10mcg per day. The preferred approach is to start patients on Immunokine as early as possible (analogous to those observations in patients in with ALS) . These therapeutic modalities will be investigated in the open trials and are important to the development of the slow release format.
What is Immunokine?
Immunokine is derived from a protein called alpha-cobratoxin. Alpha-cobratoxin recognizes the same receptors as nicotine but has the opposite effect. In a specific chemical process (patented) which is unique to the Company, this protein is changed through a process called "oxidation". At this point the protein is modified to that which is called a-Immunokine- NNS03 or commonly referred to as Immunokine.
The process confers several desirable properties on to the drug. Firstly, it lacks measurable toxicity but is still capable of attaching to and affecting the nicotine receptors. This means patients cannot overdose. Secondly, it displays no adverse side effects as indicated by years of investigations in humans and animals.
Thirdly, it is technically denatured so it is extremely stable and resistant to heat thus providing the drug with a long shelf life. The drug's stability, at room temperature, have been measured at over 4 years. This is extremely unusual for a biologic-class drug. Finally, the drug will be substantially cheaper than it's biologic competitors: Betaseron, Avonex, Roferon, Rebif and Copaxone.
a-Immunokine-NNS03 can now be administered orally - a first for an MS drug. It was routinely delivered by injection in a manner similar to insulin but recent research and development has given rise to a new oral spray, sublingual format (patent pending). This will present MS patients with additional "quality of life" benefits by eliminating the requirement for routine injections.
More Details
As mentioned above, the peptide, Immunokine, is derived from alpha cobratoxin. Cobratoxin (CTX) has a molecular weight of 7831 and is composed of 71 amino acids. The native protein is purified from the venom of the Thailand cobra, Naja naja siamensis. It represents a homologue of alpha-bungarotoxin (BTX) found in the venom of Bungarus multicintus(Formosan Krait). Both have been intensely studied as evidenced by over 2,300 publications. This protein targets the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (NAchR) in nerve and muscle tissue and functions by preventing depolarization of post-synaptic membranes through regulation of ion channels. It has no enzymatic activity (like botulinum, tetanus or ricin). It is toxic by virtue of its affinity for the receptor.
Many such "neurotoxins" are very basic in nature, containing large numbers of such residues as lysine and arginine. Binding to the specific target is mediated primarily through electrostatic interactions of amide groups on the toxin to carboxyl groups on the receptor. High salt concentrations can interfere with such interactions. The structure of the protein has been determined by NMR and is composed mostly of antiparallel beta-sheets and random coil. These sheets form 3 loops, the central loop (loop 2) being essential for the protein's activity. Loop 2 contains the arginine-glycine motif which is essential for the binding of alpha-neurotoxins. Shortened peptides (10 to 20mers) composed of residues from loop 2 can bind to the NAchR, though with lowered affinity, and prevent the activation of the receptors associated sodium channel. It should be noted that there exist both NAchR receptors that do not bind BTX and BTX binding structures that are not acetylcholine receptors.
A homology (residues 30-40) exists between the Immunokine amino-acid sequence and the sequence of HIV gp120 and Rabies glycoprotein. Immunokine has been shown to inhibit the infection of lymphocytes by both the HIV and FIV virus. A crude version of Immunokine was successfully employed in the 1950s to reduce and prevent the severity of polio in infected monkeys and humans. Subsequently it was found to prevent the infection of mice with Semliki Forest and Herpesviruses. National Institute of Health (NIH) studies showed that a family of five Herpesviruses were more sensitive to inhibition by Immunokine than Acyclovir. Clinical studies showed Immunokine to be effective at treating genital herpes and papillomavirus induced genital warts.
It should also be noted that sequence homology between Immunokine, short chain neurotoxins and serum immune repressor proteins (SIRs) have been described and this may help define a mechanism of action. SIRs have demonstrated the ability to down-regulate the immune response and inhibit tumor cell proliferation. Immunokine can also inhibit tumor proliferation in-vivo which strengthens the comparative analysis. In Chile, stage D patients with metastatic, hormone resistant prostate cancer have been treated for over 4 years.
For application in humans, the peptide, Immunokine, is prepared by oxidation of the native protein described above (patent pending). Circular Dichroism (CD) experiments indicate that the structure of the Immunokine has changed only subtly relative to its progenitor. Oxidation eliminates unwanted side effects without altering the ability of the protein to bind to the NAchR. This oxidation process may activate residues in the protein in the same manner as SIRs are by macrophages. Immunokine lacks toxicity but is still capable of binding to the NAchR - though with a greatly reduced association constant. As the protein is technically denatured it is extremely stable and resistant to heat.
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MS InfoZentrum Article - (Auf Deutsch)
Immunokine Peptid - Neues Medikament bei MS
Immunokine Peptid
Kanada prüft in einer Studie an MS-Patienten ein neues Medikament für Multiple Sklerose. (Wirkstoffe aus dem Gift der Thailändischen Cobra) In einer Studie wird momentan in Kanada bei einer Versuchsgruppe die Wirkung von Immunokine (wird aus Schlangengift gewonnen) auf die Wirkung bei MS geprüft.
Dieses Medikament soll nach Angaben des Herstellers www.esperanzapeptide.net) nicht wie bei Immunsupresiva das Immunsystem unterdrücken, sondern die Wirkung basiert auf der Zerstorung und damit der Verminderung der Makrophagen (Fresszellen)und wirkt damit der Zerstorung der Myelinschicht entgegen.
Immunokine
Immunokine (a-Immunokine-NNS03) ist eine Droge, die von BioTherapeutics, Inc. (f/k/a/PhyloMed) entwickelt wird, der für die Behandlung der progressiven mehrfachen Sklerose (MS) verwendet wird. PhyloMed in langen Bezeichnungsleituntersuchungen Freeport (großartiges Bahama) in der mehrfachen Sklerose mit Immunokine gewesen. Die Firma hat diese Studien bei MSPATIENTEN (von VEREINIGTEN STAATEN, von Kanada und von Europa) für rüber 20 Jahre geleitet.
Diese Patienten (n = 25) Selbst-üben die Einspritzungen Immunokine (100ug/ml) so viel wie 4mal täglich aus. Es hat keine Reports der nachteiligen Reaktionen entweder am Aufstellungsort der Einspritzung oder anderwohin gegeben. Dieses ist die angesehene Person, die diese Patienten gegeben wird, die mit einigen Allergien vermutlich wegen der Funktionsstorung des immunen Systems häufig anwesend sind. Im Allgemeinen ist es beobachtet worden, daß, in der Mehrheit einen Fällen, Krankheitausgleichung (90%) mit 60% von den Patienten erzielt wird, die über Verbesserung in bestimmten klinischen Symptomen mit einer berichteten Verbesserung in ihrem EDSS (Kurtzke, 1983) berichten. Die objektive Prüfung stützt diese Beobachtungen. Während diese Untersuchung nicht Placebo-kontrolliert war, stellte sie eine Gelegenheit dar, Kriterien zu entwickeln, die in den klinischen Versuchen eingesetzt werden konnten. Sie stellt auch eine Gelegenheit dar, diese Patienten über Zeit für anhaltenden therapeutischen Nutzen zu überwachen.
Wirksamkeit
Die Zusatzschmerz (in den Beinen und in den Armen) sind das erste Symptom zum Reagieren. Entlastung von den Schmerz kann mit innen 10 - 20 Minuten der Einspritzung von Immunokine folgend geglaubt werden. Einige Patienten berichten, daß Migränen auch behoben werden. Diese Beobachtung stützt die Erfahrung der Schmerzverringerung der Patienten, die unter den tiefen neuritic Schmerz leiden, die mit Schindeln dazugehorig sind. Es wird nicht angedeutet, daß MSPATIENTEN nicht Kopfschmerzen erfahren, aber die Schwierigkeit verringert werden kann.
Analyse der geduldigen Reports zeigte an, daß das zweite Symptom zum Reagieren chronische Ermüdung war. Viele Patienten benotigten einige Stunden schlafen am Nachmittag. Diese Verbesserung würde, auf Durchschnitt, die offensichtlichen 6 bis 8 Wochen dem Anfang der Therapie Immunokine folgend betragen. Patienten haben den folgende zusätzliche Einspritzungvorlage der fleißigen Tätigkeit in der Wiederaufnahme beschrieben und den Angriff der strengen Ermüdung verhindern.
Das dritte Symptom, das reagiert, ist Abgleichung. Dieses Symptom kann so verheerend sein, daß der Patient zu einem Rollstuhl begrenzt wird, oder während der sehr wenige gehende Helfer benotigt. Mit der Wiederherstellung einer Richtung der Abgleichung kann der Patient ihre Unabhängigkeit wiedergewinnen. Die Zeit, die für Verbesserung angefordert wird, ist zum Zeitabschnitt proportional, das der Service und die Dauer der Krankheit verloren war. Das Niveau der Verbesserung ist von der Beschädigung der Nervenzellen im Gehirn sehr viel abhängig. Auf Durchschnitt wird eine Verbesserung innerhalb 8 erwartet - 12 Monate und fortfahrende Verbesserung wird bei Patienten gesehen, die die Fähigkeit wiedergewonnen haben zu gehen, zu laufen und zu schwimmen. Ähnliche Verbesserungen werden bei Patienten mit slurred Rede, sensorische Schwierigkeiten gesehen (Vorstellung der heißen und kalten, Anblickprobleme). Was bemerkenswert ist, ist dieses einmal verlorene Sehvermogen kann moglicherweise nicht zurückgewonnen werden oder kann lange Perioden der Behandlung vor einer Rückkehr der Funktion erfordern.
Wenige Nebenwirkungen
Was wichtig ist, ist, daß es wenige Nebenwirkungen gibt und diese moglicherweise nicht als gesundheitsschädliches beschrieben werden konnen und Patienten nicht Überdosis konnen. Sie scheint, bei Patienten entweder mit relapsing/remitting oder dem progressiven Zustand wirkungsvoll zu sein. Patienten auf Drogen für andere Bedingungen oder Symptome haben keine Komplikationen erfahren, selbst wenn kombiniert mit anderem biologics (Avonex). Keine der Nebenwirkungen, die mit dem Interferon dazugehorig sind, sind bei Immunokine behandelten Patienten beobachtet worden und es gibt keine Toleranzprobleme. Patienten reagieren auf Dosen ein Tief, während 10mcg pro Tag und gegenwärtige Niveaus an 300mcg pro Tag sind. Die bevorzugte Annäherung soll Patienten auf Immunokine schon in moglichem beginnen (analog jenen Beobachtungen bei Patienten innen mit ALS) wo die untereren Dosen (circa 90mcg pro Tag) ausreichend sind. Diese therapeutischen Modalitäten werden in den offentlichen Verhandlungen nachgeforscht und sind zur Entwicklung des langsamen Freigabeformats wichtig.
Was ist Immunokine?
Immunokine wird von einem Protein abgeleitet, das Alpha-cobratoxin genannt wird. Alpha-cobratoxin erkennt, die gleichen Empfänger wie Nikotin aber hat den gegenüberliegenden Effekt. In einem spezifischen chemischen Prozeß (das schwebende Patent, sehen unten), einzigartigem zur Firma, wird dieses Protein durch einen Prozeß geändert, der "Oxidation" genannt wird. An diesem Punkt wird das Protein zu dem geändert, das A-Immunokine- NNS03 genannt wird oder allgemein als Immunokine gekennzeichnet.
Der Prozeß konferiert einige wünschenswerte Eigenschaften an zur Droge. Erstens ermangelt er, meßbare Giftigkeit aber ist noch zur Befestigung zu und zum Beeinflussen der Nikotinempfänger fähig. Dies heißt, daß Patienten nicht Überdosis konnen. Zweitens zeigt es keine nachteiligen Nebenwirkungen an, wie bis Jahre von Untersuchungen in den Menschen und in den Tieren angezeigt.
Drittens wird es technisch denaturiert, also ist es gegen die Hitze extrem beständig und beständig, welche folglich die Droge mit einer langen Lagerbeständigkeit versieht. Die Stabilität der Droge, bei der Raumtemperatur, sind an über 4 Jahren gemessen worden. Dieses ist für eine Biologischkategoriendroge extrem ungewohnlich. Schließlich ist die Droge im wesentlichen preiswerter, als es biologische Konkurrenten ist: Betaseron, Avonex, Roferon, Rebif und Copaxone.
a-Immunokine-NNS03 kann jetzt mündlich ausgeübt werden - ein erstes für eine MSDROGE. Es wurde routinemäßig durch die Einspritzung geliefert, die an Insulin in gewissem Sinne ähnlich ist, aber neue Forschung und Entwicklung hat ein neues Mundsprayformat (das Patent beantragen) verursacht. Dieses stellt MSPATIENTEN mit zusätzlichem "Lebensqualität" Nutzen dar, indem es die Anforderung für Routineeinspritzungen beseitigt.
Mehr Details
Wie oben erwähnt, wird das Peptid, Immunokine, vom Alphacobratoxin abgeleitet. Cobratoxin (CTX) hat ein Molekulargewicht von 7831 und besteht aus 71 Aminosäuren. Das gebürtige Protein wird vom Gift des Thailandcobra, najasiamensis Naja gereinigt. Es stellt ein Homolog des Alphas-bungarotoxin (BTX) gefunden im Gift von Bungarus multicintus(Formosan Krait) dar. Beide sind intensiv studiert worden, wie vorbei über 2.300 Publikationen bewiesen. Dieses Protein zielt den Nikotinazetylcholinempfänger (NAchR) im Nerv und im Muskelgewebe und -funktionen, indem es Depolarisierung der Pfosten-synaptischen Membranen durch Regelung der Ionenführungen verhindert. Es hat keine enzymatische Tätigkeit (wie Botulinum-, Tetanus oder ricin). Es ist aufgrund seiner Affinität für den Empfänger giftig.
Viele solche "Neurotoxine" sind in der Natur sehr grundlegend und enthalten viele solche Überreste wie Lysin und Arginin. Das Binden an das spezifische Ziel wird hauptsächlich durch elektrostatische Abhängigkeiten der Amidgruppen auf dem Giftstoff zu den Karboxyl- Gruppen auf dem Empfänger vermittelt. Hohe Salzkonzentrationen konnen solche Abhängigkeiten behinderen. Die Struktur des Proteins ist von NMR festgestellt worden und besteht meistens aus antiparallelBeta-blättern und gelegentlicher Spule. Diese Blätter bilden 3 Schleifen, die zentrale Schleife (die Schleife 2), die für die Tätigkeit des Proteins wesentlich ist. Schleife 2 enthält das Arginin-Glycinmotiv, das für die Schwergängigkeit der Alpha-Neurotoxine wesentlich ist. Die verkürzten Peptide (10 zu 20mers) bestanden aus Überresten von Schleife 2 konnen an das NAchR, zwar mit gesenkter Affinität binden und verhindern die Aktivierung der Empfänger dazugehorigen Natriumführung. Es sollte gemerkt werden, daß beide Empfänger NAchR bestehen, die nicht verbindliche Strukturen BTX und BTX binden, die nicht Azetylcholinempfänger sind.
Eine Homologie (Überreste 30-40) besteht zwischen der Aminosäurenreihenfolge Immunokine und der Reihenfolge von HIV gp120 und Tollwutglucoproteid. Immunokine ist gezeigt worden, um die Infektion der Lymphozyten zu hemmen durch das HIV- und FIV-Virus. Eine grobe Version von Immunokine wurde erfolgreich in den fünfziger Jahren eingesetzt, um die Schwierigkeit von Poliomyelitis in angesteckten Affen und in Menschen zu verringern und zu verhindern. Nachher wurde es gefunden, um die Infektion der Mäuse mit Wald und Herpesviruses Semliki zu verhindern. Nationales Institut der Studien der Gesundheit (NIH) zeigte, daß eine Familie von fünf Herpesviruses für Hemmung durch Immunokine als Acyclovir empfindlicher waren. Klinische Studien stellten dar, daß Immunokine zum Sein wirkungsvoll an behandelndem genitalem Herpes und an papillomavirus genitale Warzen verursacht.
Es sollte auch gemerkt werden daß Reihenfolgenhomologie zwischen Immunokine, kurzen Kettenneurotoxinen und Serum, die immune Hemmerproteine (Herren) beschrieben worden sind und dieses kann helfen, eine Einheit der Tätigkeit zu definieren. Herren haben die Fähigkeit demonstriert, die immune Antwort unten-zu regulieren und Tumorzellenstarke Verbreitung zu hemmen. Immunokine kann Tumorstarke Verbreitung auch in vivo hemmen, die die Analyse mit Vergleichswerten verstärkt. In Chile sind Patienten des Stadiums D mit metastatic, beständiger krebs des Hormons Prostatafür rüber 4 Jahre behandelt worden.
Für Anwendung in den Menschen, wird das Peptid, Immunokine, durch Oxidation des gebürtigen Proteins vorbereitet, das oben beschrieben wird (das Patent schwebend). Kreisformige (DIGITALSCHALLPLATTE) Experimente des Dichroismus zeigen an, daß die Struktur des Immunokine nur subtil im Verhältnis zu seinem progenitor geändert hat. Oxidation beseitigt unerwünschte Nebenwirkungen, ohne die Fähigkeit des Proteins zu ändern zur Bindung zum NAchR. Dieser Oxidationsprozeß kann Überreste im Protein auf die gleiche Weise aktivieren, während Herren durch Makrophagen sind. Immunokine ermangelt, Giftigkeit aber ist noch zum Binden zum NAchR - zwar mit einer groß verringerten Verbindungskonstante fähig. Da das Protein technisch denaturiert wird, ist es gegen Hitze extrem beständig und beständig.
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Men's Health Article
Treatment Helps Terminally Ill Woman
A woman who is terminally ill with Motor Neurone disease has praised a treatment that is available in the Bahamas.
A woman who is terminally ill with Motor Neurone Disease has praised a treatment that is available in the Bahamas for Neurological Diseases such as ALS/MND and MS.
Debbie Christie, 34, was diagnosed with the degenerative neurological condition last year and was only given a few months to live.
She subsequently flew out to the Caribbean to gain access to a drug derived from cobra venom.
Before she arrived she could not lift her head and if she spoke her jaw would lock.
However, one day after taking the new treatment she found that the pain eased and she was able to move her hips for the first time in months.
After six days she was able to walk short distances unassisted.
She now has a year's supply of the drug and hopes that one day it will be available in the UK.
FROM: The Scotsman
19 August 2004
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British Nursing News Online Article
TERMINALLY ILL MOTHER PRAISES
BAHAMAS TREATMENT FOR ALS/MND
A terminally ill mother who flew to The Bahamas to receive a radical new treatment for her degenerative neurological condition has claimed the drug - which is presently only available from The Bahamas - has transformed her life.
Debbie Christie, 34, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) last December and told that she could expect to live for just a few months.
Before flying to the Caribbean for the treatment involving a drug derived from cobra venom, Mrs Christie was in constant pain, could not lift her head and talking caused her jaw to lock.
However, after one day of the new treatment the pain lessened and she was able to move her hips for the first time in months, she said.
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Various Other Published or Featured Articles
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