Imagenetix Announces 1-Tetradecanol Complex Acts to Inhibit Bacteria and Enzymes Associated with Oral Disease, Sepsis and Inflammation

May 8, 2006

SAN DIEGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 8, 2006--Imagenetix (OTCBB:IAGX - News) today announced the successful completion of in vitro studies demonstrating the significant inhibitory function of its novel pharma compound, 1-tetradecanol complex (1-TDC). The main findings include:

• 1-TDC significantly inhibited the growth of Actinomyces viscosus, a microbe that has been shown to play a major role in oral microbial ecosystems. Actinomyces viscosus has been shown to be associated with periodontal disease and other inflammatory diseases. It is thought that this bacteria stimulates the release of arachidonic acid from cellular membranes, leading to the secretion of thromboxane A2 and PGE2, potent inflammatory cytokines.
• 1-TDC significantly inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a microbe associated with opportunistic infections leading to sepsis. This finding is important due to the outbreak of the numerous methacillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus infections around the world. This is also important as atherosclerosis and sepsis share many pathophysiological similarities which are involved in immune function and systemic inflammation.
• 1-TDC significantly inhibited thromboxane A2 production in human recombinant cells. The reduction in thromboxane A2 synthase activity was confirmed in a separate study in which thromboxane synthase receptor inhibition was evident after exposure to 1-TDC. These data demonstrate that this proprietary complex plays a vital role in the regulation of thromboxane A2 production from aracidonic acid metabolism at the cell membrane. The pathogenesis of numerous cardiovascular, pulmonary, inflammatory and thromboembolic diseases may be related to arachidonic acid metabolites.

"The significant findings from these studies form the basis for our patent filing on the treatment of inflammatory conditions including periodontal and cardiovascular diseases," stated Dr. Robert Hesslink, Director, Research & Development of Imagenetix. "We anticipate further developments in this area over the next 12 to 18 months."

San Diego-based Imagenetix, Inc., www.imagenetix.net, is developing novel drugs for the treatment of inflammatory diseases. The company also develops and markets natural-based, proprietary products, including over-the-counter topical creams and skin care products, for inflammation-related markets.