YM reports updated interim results from CYT387 Phase I/II study on myelofibrosis

YM BioSciences Inc. (NYSE Amex: YMI, TSX: YM), today reported updated interim safety and efficacy results from the Phase I/II study of its JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor, CYT387, for the treatment of myelofibrosis. The results are being presented today in a poster session at the 2011 ASCO Annual Meeting underway in Chicago, IL. YM also provided an update on its development plans for CYT387.

"CYT387 continues to demonstrate a very promising safety and efficacy profile in this ongoing study. The interim results reported at ASCO highlight that CYT387 has a favorable safety profile and can produce significant and durable responses in anemia and splenomegaly in addition to meaningfully improving constitutional symptoms," said Dr. Nick Glover, President and CEO of YM BioSciences. "The Dose Expansion Phase of the study is only beginning to report data, with comprehensive study results anticipated in calendar Q4 2011. These preliminary multicenter data are very encouraging and show a trend towards similar safety and efficacy outcomes as reported in the Dose Escalation and Dose Confirmation Phases of the study."

"Progressive anemia is a hallmark of this complex and devastating disease, with the consequence that many patients require frequent blood transfusions. Our evolving data continue to support CYT387's ability to improve anemia in myelofibrosis, helping a significant proportion of transfusion dependent patients become transfusion free," said Dr. Mark Kowalski, Chief Medical Officer of YM BioSciences.

Source: YM BIOSCIENCES INC.