U.S. patent 6,623,736 describing the use of IL-1 inhibitors to treat retinal disorders issues

Methods of use of specific recombinant DNA biotechnology drugs, which inhibit the action of the inflammatory cytokine IL-1, for the potential treatment of retinal disorders, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinitis pigmentosa, are described in this newly issued U.S. patent.

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (PRWEB) September 23, 2003 --- "Interleukin antagonists for the treatment of neurological, retinal and muscular disorders," is the title of U.S. patent 6,623,736, the seventeenth U.S. patent to be awarded to Edward Tobinick, MD. The patent issued today.

This patent describes potential methods of use of a number of biologic inhibitors of interleukin-1 (IL-1), an inflammatory cytokine which is centrally involved in the inflammatory response involving many different organ systems. The IL-1 inhibitors which are the subject of this patent include IL-1 RA, IL-1 Receptor type II, and a new molecule, an IL-1 receptor fusion protein.

Inflammation is now thought to be one of the mechanisms responsible for clinical deterioration in a number of retinal disorders, including diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. Potent and selective inhibition of IL-1, resulting in reduction of IL-1 mediated inflammation, is now possible due to the commercial availability of IL-1 RA. Several other IL-1 inhibitors are in development, including IL-1 receptor type II and IL-1 Trap.

The patent, filed May 23, 2002, issued today.

This press release was issued by Edward Lewis Tobinick, MD, A Medical Corporation which is solely responsible for its contents. This press release is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a treatment recommendation for any of the clinical disorders discussed. Further information is available on the website: www.nrimed.com.

Press Release: For Distribution September 23, 2003.