Enzo Biochem Awarded U.S. Patent on More Efficient Vector for Use in Gene Therapy

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Enzo Biochem Inc. (NYE:ENZ) announced that it has been assigned U.S. Patent Office Patent No. 8,742,090, related to the construct of an artificial vector capable of greater efficiency, in general, in targeting specific cells in the application of gene therapy and gene transfer technology.

The invention provides an alternative to the direct delivery of nucleic acid, an approach with several limitations, as noted in the patent, “including low efficiency of transfer, low stability and lack of cell specificity.” Enzo’s invention provides an array of compositions useful for effecting change in biological function and process within cells. It thus provides for targeting specific cells or specific cell receptors localizing to specific sites within cells and augmenting interactions between Enzo’s novel vector and targeted cells.

“We are pleased with the patent issuance relating to our invention that underscores Enzo’s continuing quest and development of new, more efficient and novel approaches to enhance gene diagnostics and therapy,” said Elazar Rabbani, Ph.D., Enzo Chairman, and one of the patent’s inventors. “Our ongoing search and pioneering success in this area, as indicated by our existing extensive IP estate, is a major asset and attribute of Enzo, and with 145 issued patents and over 160 pending patent applications worldwide we look forward to a continuing stream of inventions that will contribute to the progress of genetic science.”

About Enzo Biochem

Enzo Biochem is a pioneer in molecular diagnostics, leading the convergence of clinical laboratories, life sciences and therapeutics through the development of unique diagnostic platform technologies that provide numerous advantages over previous standards. A global company, Enzo Biochem utilizes cross-functional teams to develop and deploy products systems and services that meet the ever-changing and rapidly growing needs of health care both today and into the future. Underpinning Enzo Biochem’s products and technologies is a broad and deep intellectual property portfolio, with patent coverage across a number of key enabling technologies.

Except for historical information, the matters discussed in this news release may be considered "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Such statements include declarations regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of the Company and its management, including those related to cash flow, gross margins, revenues, and expenses are dependent on a number of factors outside of the control of the company including, inter alia, the markets for the Company’s products and services, costs of goods and services, other expenses, government regulations, litigations, and general business conditions. See Risk Factors in the Company’s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2013. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could materially affect actual results. The Company disclaims any obligations to update any forward-looking statement as a result of developments occurring after the date of this press release.

For Enzo Biochem, Inc.
Anreder & Company
Steven Anreder, 212-532-3232
steven.anreder@anreder.com
or
CEOcast, Inc.
Michael Wachs, 212-732-4300
mwachs@ceocast.com

Source: Enzo Biochem Inc.

Released June 6, 2014