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news release
Benitec first to show stable gene silencing
in animals
16 September, 2002 Benitec (ASX:BLT), the leader in gene silencing technology, announces a significant technical achievement in the new and rapidly growing field of gene silencing. The Company has generated the first transgenic animals in which targeted endogenous genes were shut down using gene elements that induce RNA interference (RNAi). This is a world first and provides the first example of normal genes being silenced in live animals by an internal mechanism. Patents have been filed by Benitec on this technology, in anticipation of substantial commercial opportunities leading from this achievement. Professor Ken Reed, Director of Research and Technology at Benitec, commented "where other groups have been able to use RNAi to temporarily silence genes of interest we have now demonstrated a technology that can provide permanent silencing in live animals. This is a major advance, with the potential to transform the field of functional genomics - the determination of gene function. It will provide pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies worldwide with the means to more simply and efficiently identify disease causative genes and provide new targets for drug development." The gene silencing effect was demonstrated in three separate experiments targeting two different genes in mice. In one set of experiments the galT ( -1,3-galactosyltransferase) gene, a gene of interest to those in the field of xenotransplantation (the transplant of animal organs to humans), was successfully knocked down. In another experiment the tyrosinase gene coding for black coat colour was targeted and shown to be shut down in significant areas of the skin. John McKinley, CEO of Benitec said "this result reinforces Benitec's position as the world leader in gene silencing and RNA interference as it applies to humans and animals and also reinforces our dominant intellectual property position in gene silencing using DNA technology. We see our gene silencing technology being used to develop a new therapeutic approach for the treatment of human diseases such as cancers, autoimmune disorders and major viral diseases such as HIV and Hepatitis C. In all these areas there are critical genes whose silencing will cause arrest or reversal of the disease process." The Company also sees significant commercial potential in using this technology to knock down genes in live animals. The applications extend to the development of knock-out animals for determination of gene function and the breeding of livestock resistant to viral diseases such as Foot and Mouth Disease and Swine Fever. About Benitec Limited This press release contains forward-looking statements which reflect the Company's current expectation regarding future events. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties. Actual events could differ materially from those projected herein and depend on a number of factors including the success of the Company's research strategy, the applicability of the discoveries made therein, the successful and timely completion of clinical studies and the uncertainties related to the regulatory process. Contacts |
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