HAMILTON, Bermuda - Altamira Therapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ:CYTO), a biopharmaceutical company, announced significant findings from a recent animal study on the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA).
The research, conducted by scientists from Washington University in St. Louis and the University of South Florida, showed that their SemaPhore™ nanoparticles, which deliver SOD2 mRNA to the mitochondria in the aorta wall, could reduce aorta dilation, delay rupture, and improve survival rates in mice.
AAA is a dangerous condition characterized by an abnormal enlargement of the abdominal aorta, which can lead to life-threatening ruptures. Current treatments primarily involve surgery for large or rapidly growing AAAs. The study's results suggest a potential non-surgical treatment option for managing small AAAs and preventing ruptures.
The treatment utilizes SOD2 mRNA to target oxidative stress, a key factor in AAA development. Oxidative stress results from excessive levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cells and tissues. By delivering SOD2 mRNA via systemic injections of Altamira's peptide-based SemaPhore nanoparticles, researchers were able to boost the expression of the enzyme known to eliminate ROS, thus mitigating AAA expansion and reducing the likelihood of rupture.
Samuel Wickline, M.D., Chief Scientific Adviser of Altamira and co-author of the study, noted the promising nature of this nanotherapeutic mRNA delivery approach. He emphasized the treatment's good safety profile, lack of sustained accumulation or expression in major organs, and its stability over time.
Altamira Therapeutics specializes in RNA delivery technology targeting areas beyond the liver and is also developing treatments for KRAS-driven cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. The company, founded in 2003 and based in Bermuda with operations in Switzerland, is exploring out-licensing opportunities for its technology platforms to other pharmaceutical and biotech companies.
The information reported is based on a press release statement from Altamira Therapeutics Ltd.
In other recent news, Altamira Therapeutics has been making significant strides in its various programs. The biopharmaceutical company has highlighted the potential of betahistine in treating residual dizziness in patients with benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. Altamira's AM-125, a nasal spray formulation of betahistine, has demonstrated promising results in a Phase 2 clinical trial.
Altamira has also reported advancements in the stability of RNA nanoparticles, a crucial factor for the handling and transport of RNA formulations. The company's OligoPhore nanoparticles can now remain stable in liquid form at 4°C for at least three weeks.
The company's Bentrio nasal spray has shown positive results in a clinical trial for seasonal allergic rhinitis, demonstrating significant reduction in symptoms. Altamira has filed a provisional patent application for a new RNA-based therapeutic targeting inflammatory and cancer-related pathways, emphasizing the potential of this technology in treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Altamira has also announced significant progress in strategic repositioning, focusing on RNA delivery technologies and the advancement of its proprietary drug development programs. The company reported a reduction in operating expenses and an improved financial position.
InvestingPro Insights
As Altamira Therapeutics Ltd. (NASDAQ:CYTO) makes strides with its innovative SOD2 mRNA therapy for abdominal aortic aneurysm, the financial landscape of the company presents a mix of challenges and valuation insights. According to InvestingPro data, Altamira Therapeutics holds a market capitalization of $3.58 million USD, indicative of its small-cap status in the biopharmaceutical sector. The company's Price / Book ratio, as of the last twelve months ending Q4 2023, stands at a low 0.49, which could suggest that the stock is undervalued relative to its book value, a point of interest for value investors.
InvestingPro Tips highlight that while Altamira Therapeutics holds more cash than debt on its balance sheet, a sign of financial stability, the company is not expected to be profitable this year. Additionally, the stock has experienced significant price volatility, with a 1-year price total return as of early 2024 showing a sharp decline of -80.86%. This volatility could be attributed to the inherent risks of biopharmaceutical development and market sentiment surrounding the company's future profitability.
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