Roche, ThromboGenics, Geymonat to research P1GF

ThromboGenics and Geymonat have announced the approval from the European Union of a grant worth two million euros (1.32 million pounds) for a research consortium including the two companies, alongside partner Roche Diagnostics, Eurogentec and three academic groups.

The funding derives from the Framework Programme Six of the EU, which will grant support for the development of placental growth factor (P1GF) and analogues of compound for tissue regeneration, wound healing and the treatment of ischemic heart disease and peripheral arterial occlusive disease.

P1GF, a pro-angiogenic cytokine, is a homologue of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), but interacts differently with receptors.

Dr Giuseppe Salvia, general manager and managing director of Geymonat, said: “Our experience is an outstanding example of cooperation among companies and distinguished research centres.”

He added that this experience included organisations with different backgrounds and cultural roots, but connected by the wish to devote their professional ability and knowledge to a common research project that will benefit the whole medical community.

In October 2006, Roche announced that it had signed a licensing agreement with Geymonat and ThromboGenics that would give the company co-exclusive global rights to the diagnostic applications of P1GF in the field of vascular disorders.