ReNeuron Group To Present New Data Of Lead CTX Stem Cell Line

LONDON (Dow Jones)--ReNeuron Group PLC (RENE.LN), a clinical-stage stem cell business, said Monday it will present important new data regarding the mechanisms of action of its lead CTX stem cell line in pre-clinical models of brain damage. MAIN FACTS: -The results of these studies will be presented in two posters1 at the UK National Stem Cell Network Annual Scientific Conference. -In one series of studies, the angiogenic potential of the CTX stem cell line was tested, both in vitro and in rodent models of stroke damage; Angiogenesis is a multiple-step process whereby new blood vessels develop from pre-existing vasculature, potentially contributing to the functional recovery of the brain from damage such as that caused by ischaemic stroke. -The results of these studies showed that the CTX cells express several trophic and pro-angiogenic factors in culture and also induce endothelial cell markers associated with blood vessel formation in the host at both 72 hours and 7 days post-implantation of the cells into the brain. -The results suggest that the CTX cells may play a role in promoting the functional recovery of stroke patients through up-regulation of angiogenesis in the region of ischaemic brain damage. -In a series of further studies, the CTX cells were seen to inhibit T cell activation; This immunosuppressive activity was in part attributed to the up-regulation of the ligand CD274, a regulator of T cell function. -These results suggest that the CTX cells may act to suppress the inflammatory response associated with brain damage, thereby aiding the natural healing processes in the brain. -Shares on Friday closed at 4 pence, valuing the company at GBP17.5 million. -By Tapan Panchal, Dow Jones Newswires. Tel +44(0)207-842 9448, tapan.panchal@dowjones.com (END) Dow Jones Newswires July 12, 2010 02:27 ET (06:27 GMT)