Immunocal may be effective in preserving blood glutathione levels

MONTREAL, June 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ - Immunotec Inc. (TSXV: IMM) (www.immunotec.com/IRL/Public/en/CAN/science_research.wcp) announces that data from research using Immunocal® in a mouse model by Principal Investigator Daniel Linseman, PhD and his team at the University of Denver in Colorado shows promise in delaying the onset of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Investigators studied mice harbouring the gene that is responsible for some forms of the disease commonly known as ALS or Lou Gehrig's disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and the spinal cord. The data demonstrates for the first time that supplementation with Immunocal may be effective in preserving blood glutathione levels which typically diminish in affected mice. Immunocal, a whey protein isolate, is Immunotec's flagship product.

Dr. Linseman, is enthusiastic about the results from this study: "Further research is essential to learn more about the strategy of enhancing endogenous GSH levels via intake of Immunocal and its potential benefits in ALS." Immunotec President, Stuart Macmillan also applauds the encouraging outcome of the study. "Year after year, Immunotec continues to collaborate with leading researchers and scientists to improve the quality of life for individuals around the world."

Immunocal is a patented natural nutritional supplement that is clinically proven to raise and sustain the body's concentration of glutathione for the maintenance of a strong immune system. "This independent research initiative and the preliminary results are very encouraging and we look forward to future opportunities to collaborate in preclinical and clinical development," says Immunotec Vice-President of Research and Development, Mr. John Molson.

While ALS is a relatively rare disease - a total of approximately 33,000 Americans and Canadians are currently affected - it is fatal, with eighty percent of people with ALS dying within five years of diagnosis. Even in its early stages, the disease runs a very difficult course, making it difficult to breathe or swallow. Especially in the United States, costs for medical care can be significant, particularly in its late stages.

Research team member Erika Ross presented the highlights of this study in a poster, "A non-denatured whey protein supplement (Immunocal®) protects neurons from mitochondrial oxidative stress and delays disease onset in the mutant SOD1 mouse model of ALS" during the recent Keystone Symposia on Neurodegenerative Diseases in Taos, New Mexico. The overall findings indicate that Immunocal significantly protects cells from oxidative stress through glutathione synthesis. The full poster can be viewed at www.immunotec.com.

Immunotec is engaged primarily in the development and marketing of natural health products, dietary supplements, vitamins and personal care products which are distributed throughout Canada, the United States and Mexico through a sophisticated, seamless network marketing channel and around the globe through exclusive distributorship agreements.