Antisense Therapeutics Ltd. (ASX: ANP) announced today that...

Antisense Therapeutics Ltd. (ASX: ANP) announced today that ATL/TV1102, a novel, anti-sense drug, significantly reduced disease activity in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled Phase IIa study met its primary endpoint showing a significant reduction by 54.4% (p=0.01) in cumulative number of new active lesions in patients taking ATL/TV1102 for 8 weeks, compared to placebo, as measured by magnetic resonance images (MRI).

Based on these encouraging results, Teva intends to conduct additional pre-clinical and clinical research before continuing to a Phase III study with this unique and promising molecule.

The Principal Investigator for the trial, Volker Limmroth MD PhD, Chairman of the Department of Neurology, Cologne City Hospitals, Germany, said, "The results of this international multi-center clinical study are very encouraging and demonstrate a highly significant effect for ATL/TV1102 on disease activity in MS patients."

“Following these results, we are planning to continue the development of this new and exciting molecule designed to confirm the efficacy of ATL/TV1102,” said Moshe Manor, Teva's Group Vice President, Global Innovative Resources. “Together with COPAXONE®, a market-leading MS therapy and Laquinimod, an oral MS treatment currently in Phase III studies, Teva continues with its commitment to help MS patients and improve their quality of life.”

"We are very pleased with the results of this study. Achieving the primary endpoint to such a significant degree vindicates our efforts in developing this unique drug, the first to use antisense technology in the treatment of MS. We now look forward to continuing the development of ATL/TV1102 for MS with one of the leading pharmaceutical companies in the world", said Mark Diamond, Chief Executive Officer of Antisense Therapeutics Ltd.

Teva is responsible for funding and performing future development activities as outlined above for ATL/TV1102. This decision by Teva to move forward with the development of ATL/TV1102 triggers a US$4 million milestone payment in accordance with the license agreement between Teva and ANP.