Read the article, titled "Antithrombotic but not anticoagulant activity of the thrombin-binding RNA aptamer Apta-1", via this link. The article describes the results of the preclinical and mechanistic studies that have been performed by Aptahem and in a collaboration during several years with Örebro University. The study results provide evidence for Apta-1's unique therapeutic mechanism as well as a ground-breaking understanding of the function of the coagulation system.

Dr Magnus Grenegård, Professor in physiology at Örebro University, comments:

"Drug treatment aimed at reducing the risk of blood clots always entails a risk of bleeding complications. The target of Apta-1 is the multifunctional proteolytic enzyme thrombin. Apta-1 prevents a central function of thrombin, i.e. the ability to activate pro-thrombotic and pro-inflammatory surface receptors on blood cells. The consequence of this is a reduced risk of blood clots and a suppression of the inflammatory response. However, thrombin's ability to activate blood coagulation is unaffected and thus Apta-1 does not meet the criteria as an anticoagulant. Our research shows that Apta-1 has a protective effect against blood clots without any evidence of an increased risk of bleeding. Scientifically, this is an extremely interesting mechanism of action that could be important for the future treatment of severe disease conditions."

CEO Mikael Lindstam comments:

"It is a great pleasure for us that these groundbreaking results now have been published in BJP which is one of the top ranked scientific journals. To be able to meet the journal's high standard, the team has worked long and hard and with great detail. CSO and founder Dr Jedlina and her colleagues together with Prof Grenegård have delivered a high-class publication."

For further information:

Aptahem AB
Mikael Lindstam, CEO
Tel: +46 (0)766-33 36 99
E-mail: ml@aptahem.com

About Aptahem

Aptahem AB (APTA) is a clinical stage biotechnology company that develops RNA-based pharmaceuticals for the treatment of acute, life-threatening conditions in which a combination of coagulation, inflammation and tissue damage are involved. The company's lead candidate, Apta-1, is currently in early clinical phase. Apta-1 has in preclinical studies, by its anti-thrombotic, immunomodulating and tissue repairing characteristics, shown very positive and promising results as treatment for sepsis and critical conditions associated with sepsis. For more information, please visit www.aptahem.com.