Ciba Finds Biosignal Compounds "Exceptional" Against Microbes In Swiss Study

Main Category: Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses
Also Included In: Biology / Biochemistry
Article Date: 22 Nov 2007 - 2:00 PDT

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Testing by Ciba Specialty Chemicals in its laboratory in Basel, Switzerland has shown that Biosignal's compounds have exceptional activity against micro-organisms.

The work has been conducted under the joint development agreement signed between Biosignal and Ciba in March 2006. Completion of these studies marks progression to the next phase of the collaboration and triggers a milestone and further work payments to Biosignal.

Two of Biosignal's lead compounds were formulated into PVC plastic and were able to completely inhibit growth on the material's surface. The results compare favourably with those achieved using existing products, many of which suffer flaws such as toxicity. This work confirms earlier strong in vitro activity and opens a range of product opportunities for Biosignal and Ciba.

"These are truly exceptional activity results and we are further developing the compounds under our joint agreement," said Ted Deisenroth, Technical Project Leader of the Bio-protection Group at Ciba Specialty Chemicals.

"Biosignal's industrial applications are accelerating on three fronts, consistent with the company's new focus. Oil & gas applications are rapidly progressing, major Japanese companies are adopting this technology as a product driver, and investing in Biosignal at the same time, and Ciba Specialty Chemicals is making excellent progress," said Peter Steinberg, CEO of Biosignal. "The industrial side of the business is building momentum."

Biosignal is currently discussing opportunities to fast track product development with Ciba. Biosignal will receive royalties on sales of Ciba products that include its compounds.

About Biosignal and the anti-biofilm technology

Biosignal's anti-biofilm technology is based on a discovery that the eastern Australian seaweed Delisea pulchra produces natural furanones that disable bacteria's ability to colonise. The fundamental problem with existing anti-bacterials, including antibiotics, is bacterial resistance. Bacteria rapidly produce resistant strains when faced with strong selective pressure by killing agents or growth-inhibitory agents. Furanones lull bacteria to inaction and appear to avoid the problem of bacterial resistance.

Biosignal produces synthetic compounds effective on inanimate surfaces such as pipes and membranes and animate surfaces such as lungs, skin and teeth. Biosignal's collaborations with US, European and Japanese companies are assessing new applications across a range of consumer and industrial products.

About Ciba Specialty Chemicals

Ciba Specialty Chemicals (SWX: CIBN, NYSE: CSB) is a leading global company dedicated to producing high-value effects for its customers' products. We strive to be the partner of choice for our customers, offering them innovative products and one-stop expert service. We create effects that improve the quality of life - adding performance, protection, colour and strength to textiles, plastics, paper, automobiles, buildings, home and personal care products and much more. Ciba Specialty Chemicals is active in more than 120 countries around the world and is committed to be a leader in its chosen markets. In 2005 the Company generated sales of CHF 7.4 billion and invested over CHF 300 million in R&D.

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