Onconase, Amphinase 2 show positive results for SARS virus: Tamir Biotechnology

Tamir Biotechnology, Inc. (formerly Alfacell Corporation) (OTCBB:ACEL) announced today that scientists supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) confirmed that testing of two (2) of the company's compounds Onconase^® (Ranpirnase), and recombinant Amphinase 2 showed positive in vitro results for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, also known as (SARS) virus.

In order to determine the effectiveness of a compound, NIAID uses a Selectivity Index (SI). The SI measures EC50 (50% virus-inhibitory (effective) concentration and EC90 (90%) cell inhibitory (cytotoxic) concentration determined in stationary cells.

"Many companies spend years in research and development and untold millions in the hope of developing a compound capable of demonstrating anti viral activity against a single virus. This week we've been able to report positive anti viral activity in Dengue  stated Charles Muniz, Chief Executive Officer of Tamir.