UMDNJ, Proteonomix to conduct UMK-121 Phase 1 trial in end-stage liver disease

Proteonomix, Inc. (OTC/BB: PROT), a biotechnology company focused on developing therapeutics based upon the use of human cells and their derivatives, today announced it has entered into an agreement with Piscataway, N.J.-based University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) to conducted a Phase 1 clinical trial with its proprietary, patent-pending mobilization technology UMK-121 in patients with end-stage liver disease (ESLD). The Company also announced that Chief Executive Officer Michael Cohen made a presentation at the National Investment Banking Association's (NIBA) 123^rd Investment Conference yesterday at the New York Marriott Downtown in New York City.    

The single-center Phase 1 clinical trial, Mobilization of Stem Cells with UMK 121 in Patients with Cirrhosis, will enroll 15 patients with ESLD. The trial will study the safety of mobilization of stem cells in this patient population, as well as the effects of mobilization of stems cells from bone marrow to the peripheral circulation on liver function. Baburao Koneru, M.D., Professor and Chief of the Division of Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery at New Jersey Medical School, will serve as the trial's principal investigator.

"We are extremely pleased to announce that our trial will be conducted at this highly respected institution under the direction of Dr. Koneru, who is a renowned expert in the field of liver function," said Mr. Cohen. "Our presentation to the investment professionals attending the NIBA conference provided an opportunity to discuss the potential of UMK-121 in ESLD as we make preparations to commence this clinical trial, which we hope to initiate in the coming months."

UMK-121 combines two existing FDA-approved drugs with the intention of mobilizing mesenchymal stem cells from bone marrow to the peripheral circulation. This proprietary drug combination is designed to reduce inflammation and increase angiogenesis to restore liver function, potentially extending the life of ESLD patients awaiting liver transplant.

Source: University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey