MONTREAL, July 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - Immunotec Inc.
(TSXV: IMM) (www.immunotec.com/IRL/
Public/en/USA/products_overview.wcp?) announces that Nova Southeastern University (NSU) in Florida is conducting a study to determine the
effects of Immunocal on the behaviours of children with autism
spectrum disorder (ASD). Immunocal, a whey protein isolate,
is Immunotec's flagship product.
The primary focus of the two-year study is to determine if
children diagnosed with autism would exhibit improved behaviours
after consuming the cysteine-rich whey proteins in Immunocal during
the course of the 90-day observation period. The outcome
could be a better quality of life, both for the children and their
families.
The principal investigator of the NSU-Immunotec study is
Ana Maria Castejon, Ph.D., an
associate professor at the College of Pharmacy. She and her
research team are very enthusiastic about the potential outcomes.
"Parents and caregivers are trying different approaches that have
gained significant popularity, but have not been proven to be
effective," Castejon said. Dr. Gary
S. Margules, Vice President of Research and Technology
Transfer at NSU, echoes Dr. Castejon's optimism, calling the study
an "outstanding example of the multidisciplinary approach to
clinical research".
Immunotec President, Stuart
MacMillan welcomes the announcement of the study.
"Immunotec has a long history of collaboration with leading
researchers and scientists. Dr. Castejon and her
co-investigators at NSU's Mailman Segal Center of Human Development
have vast experience in children with developmental disorders,
specifically in the area of autism behaviours and we are proud to
be working with them on this study."
Both the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Health Canada
note that as many as 1 in 150 children worldwide are affected and
the numbers are rising. Treatment for autism is usually centered on
special schooling and behavioral therapy, and other conventional
medical treatments.
"This joint collaborative clinical research initiative marks an
important milestone for Immunotec in the field of autism; we are
proud to partner with NSU in this study," said John Molson, Immunotec Vice-President, Research
and Development.
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.
The TSX Venture does not accept responsibility
for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
SOURCE IMMUNOTEC INC.