VANCOUVER, May 28, 2019 /CNW/ - Sirona Biochem Corp. (TSX-V: SBM) (FSE: ZSB) ("Sirona") is pleased to announce safety testing on its lead glycoprotein compound in the anti-wrinkle program yielded excellent results and the company will immediately move to the next steps of development. This project was generously supported by BPI France and the region Haute Normandie.

The comprehensive safety analysis was performed by CEHTRA (www.cehtra.com), cosmetic toxicology specialists in Paris, France. Key in vitro measures and in silico analyses of safety were evaluated, including skin irritation, skin sensitization, ocular tolerability, phototoxicity, genotoxicity and carcinogenicity. It was concluded that there is no evidence of these issues in the testing. Also, based on in silico analysis, no systemic toxicity is expected.

"These are very encouraging results for our anti-wrinkle program. Sirona's scientists at our French subsidiary, TFChem, will be focusing their efforts on the next set of tests and a detailed project plan to make this a priority. There is still work to be done in the lab, but we have nicely de-risked the project by conducting these safety assays", reports Dr. Howard Verrico, CEO of Sirona Biochem.

Next steps in the program will include additional in vitro assays for a second review by CEHTRA to determine dosing. This will be followed by synthetic process refinements, synthesis of a batch for formulation, skin permeation study and clinical safety evaluation.

Loss of elasticity and degradation of fat tissue are two markers seen in aging skin, leading to the appearance of lines and wrinkles. Compounds that increase the number and volume of adipocytes (fat cells) can act as plumping, volumizing, and densifying skin agents, thereby reducing the visibility of wrinkle and potentially providing a more youthful look. Novel solutions are actively being sought out by the dermatology industry to address this.

The global anti-aging market is forecast to reach up to US$271.0 Billion by 2024.¹ The anti-wrinkle product category held the largest share in the anti-aging market, with 59.3% contribution in 2017.²

The anti-wrinkle potential of LIP-01 is as a non-invasive treatment for fine wrinkles by a mechanism very different from dermal fillers and Botox®. Botox®³ is generally limited to use on the upper third of the face, specifically the frown lines between the eyebrows. Botox® also requires administration by a properly trained professional.

"Less of our team's resources are needed on the skin lightening project as its development is now mainly focused on manufacturing. We are excited to have the opportunity to continue expanding the powerful technology platform developed by our Chief Scientific Officer Dr. Geraldine Deliencourt and her team. This anti-wrinkle compound has fascinating properties in cells and we anticipate moving it along quickly. If clinically successful, LIP-01 could exceed Botox in market potential," Dr. Verrico concluded.

About Sirona Biochem Corp.

Sirona Biochem is a cosmetic ingredient and drug discovery company with a proprietary platform technology. Sirona specializes in stabilizing carbohydrate molecules with the goal of improving efficacy and safety. New compounds are patented for maximum revenue potential.

Sirona's compounds are licensed to leading companies around the world in return for licensing fees, milestone fees and ongoing royalty payments. Sirona's laboratory, TFChem, is in France and is the recipient of multiple French national scientific awards and European Union and French government grants. For more information, please visit www.sironabiochem.com.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

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Sirona Biochem cautions you that statements included in this press release that are not a description of historical facts may be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are only predictions based upon current expectations and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of release of the relevant information, unless explicitly stated otherwise.  Actual results, performance or achievement could differ materially from those expressed in, or implied by, Sirona Biochem's forward-looking statements due to the risks and uncertainties inherent in Sirona Biochem's business including, without limitation, statements about: the progress and timing of its clinical trials; difficulties or delays in development, testing, obtaining regulatory approval, producing and marketing its products; unexpected adverse side effects or inadequate therapeutic efficacy of its products that could delay or prevent product development or commercialization; the scope and validity of patent protection for its products; competition from other pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies; and its ability to obtain additional financing to support its operations. Sirona Biochem does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements except as required by law. 

SOURCE Sirona Biochem Corp.

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