Athera Signs Distribution Agreement in Scandinavia

STOCKHOLM, August 27, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Athera Biotechnologies and Electra-Box Diagnostica, announced today that they have signed an agreement for distribution of "CVDefine" kit. CVDefine measures a new biomarker in blood, a specific anti-body, that has been linked to increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Athera Biotechnologies is part of the Karolinska Development portfolio.

Carina Schmidt, VD i Athera:

"This is an important step in the broader commercialization of CVDefine. Together with Electra-Box we will now be able to expand our contacs with leading clinial scientist in the cardiovascular field and increase the exposure of our trademark. We look forward to be able to work with the experienced Electra-Box team."

Peter Blom, responsible for clinical chemistry in Electra-Box Diagnostica: "We are very excited about the opportunities this agreement present. This will allow us to offer a new CVD biomarker to customers in Scandinavia. Since CVDefine(R) may add important and independent information in cardiovascular risk assessment; we believe there is a lot of interest from scientist in the field to generate further clinical research data".

High levels of IgM antibodies against phosphorylcholine (anti-PC) have been shown to be cardio-protective. Low levels of anti-PC are known to be involved in atherosclerosis development and increased risk for acute cardiovascular events, like stroke and myocardial infarction. Athera is investigating the possibilities to develop new immunological therapies to prevent secondary cardiovascular events and to identify the patients who benefit most from this treatment with CVDefine, and consequently contribute to better care after acute heart disease.

To The Editors

About Athera Biotechnologies AB (publ)

Athera has a unique and in-depth understanding of the immunological components in atherosclerosis, the inflammatory process leading to cardiovascular disease (CVD). The company currently has two biopharmaceutical product candidates aimed at treating patients with acute heart conditions and a biomarker linked to the therapeutic approach. Athera is part of the Karolinska Development AB (publ) portfolio. http://www.athera.se

About CVDefine

CVDefine(R) is a diagnostic test measuring IgM anti-bodies against phosphorylcholine (anti-PC). Low levels of anti-PC indicate a risk for future development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVDefine(R) is an ELISA kit for early detection of increased cardiovascular risk due to atherosclerosis and vascular inflammation.

About Karolinska Development (publ)

Karolinska Development manages one of the largest portfolios of life science companies in Europe. Using a unique, highly cost efficient business model, the management team guides the commercialization of world class life science innovations, helping to shape the next generation Pharma industry. Since 2003, Karolinska Development has built a portfolio of some 40 companies; among the company's projects 12 compounds are undergoing clinical trials. The portfolio contains a total of 21 potential first-in-class products. http://www.karolinskadevelopment.com

About Electra-Box Diagnostica AB:

Electra-Box Diagnostica is a distribution company for products to research and clinical laboratories in Sweden, Denmark, Norway, Finland and Baltic countries. http://www.electrabox.com

    For additional information, please contact:

    Carina Schmidt, CEO Athera Biotechnologies AB
    Phone: +4670-552-5115
    E-mailt: [email protected]

SOURCE Athera Biotechnologies AB