MONTREAL, June 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - Immunotec Inc.
(TSXV: IMM)
(www.immunotec.com/IRL/Public/en/CAN/science_research.wcp)
announces that data from research using Immunocal® in a mouse model
by Principal Investigator Daniel
Linseman, PhD and his team at the University of Denver in Colorado shows promise in delaying the onset
of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Investigators studied mice
harbouring the gene that is responsible for some forms of the
disease commonly known as ALS or Lou
Gehrig's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease
that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. The
data demonstrates for the first time that supplementation with
Immunocal may be effective in preserving blood glutathione
levels which typically diminish in affected mice. Immunocal, a whey
protein isolate, is Immunotec's flagship product.
Dr. Linseman, is enthusiastic about the results
from this study: "Further research is essential to learn more about
the strategy of enhancing endogenous GSH levels via intake of
Immunocal and its potential benefits in ALS." Immunotec President,
Stuart Macmillan also applauds the
encouraging outcome of the study. "Year after year, Immunotec
continues to collaborate with leading researchers and scientists to
improve the quality of life for individuals around the world."
Immunocal is a patented natural nutritional supplement that is
clinically proven to raise and sustain the body's concentration of
glutathione for the maintenance of a strong immune system. "This
independent research initiative and the preliminary results are
very encouraging and we look forward to future opportunities to
collaborate in preclinical and clinical development," says
Immunotec Vice-President of Research and Development, Mr.
John Molson.
While ALS is a relatively rare disease - a total of
approximately 33,000 Americans and Canadians are currently affected
- it is fatal, with eighty percent of people with ALS dying within
five years of diagnosis. Even in its early stages, the disease runs
a very difficult course, making it difficult to breathe or
swallow. Especially in the United
States, costs for medical care can be significant,
particularly in its late stages.
Research team member Erika Ross
presented the highlights of this study in a poster, "A
non-denatured whey protein supplement (Immunocal®) protects neurons
from mitochondrial oxidative stress and delays disease onset in the
mutant SOD1 mouse model of ALS" during the recent Keystone Symposia
on Neurodegenerative Diseases in Taos, New Mexico. The overall findings
indicate that Immunocal significantly protects cells from oxidative
stress through glutathione synthesis. The full poster can be viewed
at www.immunotec.com.
About Immunotec Inc.
Immunotec is engaged primarily in the development and marketing
of natural health products, dietary supplements, vitamins and
personal care products which are distributed throughout
Canada, the United States and Mexico through a sophisticated, seamless
network marketing channel and around the globe through exclusive
distributorship agreements.
SOURCE IMMUNOTEC INC.