ADVENTRX Pharmaceuticals Files IND for Phase Ib/IIa Trials for HIV Viral Entry Inhibitor SAN DIEGO, March 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- ADVENTRX Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (BULLETIN BOARD: AVRX) announced today that it has filed an Investigational New Drug Application (IND) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to begin its clinical program for BlockAide/CR(TM), a peptide-based drug that is representative of the new "fourth modality" of HIV therapeutics that works by blocking viral entry andinfection of human immune system cells. "Viral resistance and toxicity continue to be major challenges in the treatment of HIV patients on HAART (highly active antiretroviral therapy)," said Dr. Joan Robbins, Chief Technical Officer of ADVENTRX. "We plan to test our drug in patients with evidence of HIV replication despite ongoing HAART. Our Phase Ib/IIa trial is a multi-dose trial that is designed to examine the safety, pharmacokinetics and effect on viral load of BlockAide/CR." BlockAide/CR use in humans is intended to inhibit HIV infection during an early and lengthy step in the infection process. In contrast, HAART drugs are used to interrupt viral replication after HIV has gained entry into immune system cells. Preclinical testing of BlockAide/CR demonstrated efficacy in HIV-infected human cells and in non-human primates challenged with SHIV (simian human immunodeficiency virus). Furthermore, since BlockAide/CR binds to immune system cells rather than binding directly to HIV to inhibit viral entry, BlockAide/CR may be less susceptible to problems associated with viral resistance that have plagued other viral entry inhibitors and HAART drugs. ADVENTRX ADVENTRX Pharmaceuticals Inc. is a biopharmaceutical research and development company whose business strategy is to commercialize leading edge medical research through licensing agreements with prominent universities and research institutions. The Company focuses its energy in cancer and antiviral research to launch products that either extend the usefulness of current therapies or replace marginal therapies with new approaches to treatment. This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities LitigationReform Act of 1995. Such statements are made based on management's current expectations and beliefs. Actual results may vary from those currently anticipated based upon a number of factors, including uncertainties inherent in the drug development process, the timing and success of clinical trials, the validity of research results, and the receipt of necessary approvals from the United States Food and Drug Administration. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions, which may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof. Contact: The Ruth Group Investors: Stephanie Carrington 646-536-7017 Media: Cynthia Isaac, Ph.D. 646-536-7028 DATASOURCE: ADVENTRX Pharmaceuticals Inc. CONTACT: Investors, Stephanie Carrington, +1-646-536-7017, or Media, Cynthia Isaac, Ph.D., +1-646-536-7028, both of The Ruth Group for ADVENTRX Pharmaceuticals Inc.

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