WOONSOCKET, R.I., Nov. 13, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- MultiCell Technologies, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: MCET.OB) has filed a second U.S. patent application concerning methods and formulations to achieve targeted tumor cell death. MCT-485 is a noncoding double stranded micro RNA (miRNA) which has demonstrated oncolytic and immune stimulating activity in in vitro models of hepatocellular carcinoma. MCT-485 is currently being evaluated in animal models of hepatocellular carcinoma.

This invention addresses the need to direct the powerful biological effect of miRNAs such as MCT-485 towards tumor cells and away from normal tissues. This patent application describes compositions and methods that target populations of cancerous cells which have an enhanced capability to mediate the process of relapse, progression and metastasis. Not all cancer cells have a tumor initiating capability; this U.S. patent application describes compositions and methods that target cancer by delivering a biologically active, cytotoxic payload of miRNA to only those cells having the highest tumor initiating capability that are part of the cancerous process such as cancer stem cells and tumor initiating cells, and to kill those cells without killing cells not directly involved in the process of relapse, progression and metastasis of cancer.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is the most common form of primary liver cancer, and is a leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Over 1 million cases of hepatocellular carcinoma are reported annually. Current approaches for treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma are of limited efficacy. MCT-485, possessing both oncolytic and immune activating properties, could be superior to doxorubicin, cisplatin and other currently marketed therapies by providing a more robust activation of immunity, and a more global and longer lasting anti-tumor effect.

About MCT-485

MultiCell Technologies' MCT-485 is a noncoding double stranded micro RNA (miRNA), and the first of a family of prospective cancer therapeutics. MultiCell owns rights to several issued U.S. and foreign patents and patent applications related to MCT-485 and other miRNAs.

About MultiCell Technologies, Inc.

MultiCell Technologies, Inc. is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics and discovery tools for the treatment of neurological disorders, hepatic disease and cancer. For more information about MultiCell Technologies, please visit http://www.multicelltech.com.

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SOURCE MultiCell Technologies, Inc.

SOURCE: MultiCell Technologies, Inc.