Mast Therapeutics' data show that MST-188 reduces aggregation of both older and younger RBC

Mast Therapeutics, Inc. (NYSE MKT: MSTX) today announced that two posters for its lead product candidate, MST-188, were presented at the 7^th Annual Sickle Cell Disease Research & Educational Symposium, currently underway in Miami.  

Brian M. Culley , Chief Executive Officer, said: "Increasing evidence suggests that transfusion of 'older' red blood cells (RBC) impairs clinical outcomes as a result of defects resulting from storage or age.  An NIH meta-analysis of 21 studies involving more than 400,000 patients reported that transfusion of older versus newer blood was associated with significantly increased risk of death.  Since older RBC aggregate more than younger RBC, we hypothesize that increased RBC aggregation following transfusion of older RBC or those with 'storage lesion' impairs blood flow in the microcirculation, where the majority of oxygen and nutrient exchange occur, thereby decreasing tissue perfusion and worsening outcomes." 

Mr. Culley continued: "The data presented today show that MST-188 reduced aggregation of both older and younger RBC, with a greater effect on older RBC.  If adverse clinical outcomes following transfusion are the result of increased RBC aggregation in the microcirculation, MST-188 may offer an option to improve the efficacy of transfusion.  We are conducting additional preclinical studies in this area, with the goal of helping to improve treatment options for the 4.5 million people who, in the U.S. alone, receive a transfusion each year." 

Poster Information:

• The poster entitled "Is There a Role for a Rheologic Agent in Transfusion?" was presented by R. Martin Emanuele , Ph.D., Senior Vice President, Development
• The poster entitled "Evaluation of Purified Poloxamer 188 in Children (EPIC) – Key Design Considerations" was presented by Santosh J. Vetticaden, Ph.D., M.D., Chief Medical Officer
• The poster presentations are available on the Company's website at http://www.masttherapeutics.com/technology/publications/