The eighth patent awarded to Edward Tobinick, M.D. detailing new recombinant DNA-derived methods to treat neurological and related clinical disorders was approved today by the United States Patent office. Dr. Tobinick, Assistant Clinical Professor of Medicine at UCLA, is the Medical Director of the Institute for Neurological Research (INR?), a private medical group. This patent, entitled "Interleukin Antagonists for the Treatment of Neurological, Retinal, and Muscular Disorders", U.S. Patent 6,471,961, mainly details the use of antagonists to interleukin-1 for the treatment of neurological disorders.

Interleukin-1 is a proinflammatory cytokine, a naturally occurring molecule which amplifies the human body's inflammatory response. Interleukin-1 antagonists are biologic agents, produced through recombinant DNA technology, which inhibit the action of interleukin-1. One such molecule, interleukin-1 receptor antagonist, is currently used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Use of these agents to treat neurological disorders has not yet been shown to be either safe or effective. Experimental evidence in animals has suggested that interleukin-1 is involved in the pathogenesis of a variety of neurological disorders.

"We are pleased that this patent has issued, because it adds significant breadth to our patent portfolio," stated Dr. Tobinick. "The strength of an IP portfolio has become of increasing importance in biotechnology and medicine. We anticipate further additions to this portfolio in the future," he added.

About the Institute for Neurological Research

The main office of the Institute for Neurological Research, a private medical group, is located at 100 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suites 205-210, Los Angeles, California 90095. The INR can be contacted by telephone at (310) 824-6199. The INR conducts clinical research, as well as practicing medicine. Further information regarding the INR can be found at www.nrimed.com.

Editor's Note: For additional information, including interview arrangements, please contact Sherie Faulkner, Media Relations, INR, at (310) 824-6199.

Contact: Sherie Faulkner

(310) 824-6199