Vical (VICL) - 500 Beiträge pro Seite

[gholzbauer]

Ich habe hier ein paar Meinungen aus alten Threads (Datum beachten!) zusammengetragen und ein paar aktuelle Meldungen hinzugefügt. Wenn man den Kursverlauf betrachtet, scheint VICL zur Zeit ziemlich außer Mode gekommen zu sein. Falls Allovectin und/oder Leuvectin die nächsten Stufen der klinischen Entwicklung erreichen, sollte die Aufmerksamkeit der Investoren schnell wieder zurückkehren.
Ich bin der Meinung, bei einem Kurs von 17$, bei knapp 20 Mio. Aktien einer Marktkapitalisierung von 340 Mio. $ und 150 Mio.$ Cash (7$/Aktie) weist VICL ein gutes Chance/Risiko-Verhältnis auf.
Für Merck, Pfizer, Aventis oder Genzyme könnte Vical zudem ein Übernahmekandidat sein.
gholzbauer,10.8.2000



Vitality for a Biotech Company Called Vical
April 6, 1999 3:08 AM EDT

By Cheryl Peress
Correspondent

For the past couple of years the biotech industry has
suffered a relapse. It`s hard to believe that the industry
was once almost as hot as the Internet sector is now.

But, thanks to recent developments in gene therapy,
biotech may be poised for a breakthrough. And Vical
(quote, chart, profile) is one company that may bring the
entire sector back to life.

"Vical is a leader in gene therapy, a sector that we believe
will begin to gain visibility this year," said BancBoston
Robertson Stephens in a recent report.

Vical`s patented "naked DNA" technology has put the
company in a league of its own. The company uses naked
DNA and proprietary cytofectins to deliver selected genes
into certain cells to produce proteins that act to prevent
or treat a variety of diseases and disorders.

Currently, the company is developing its own product
candidates for cancer, while developing vaccine and
therapeutic protein product candidates for infectious
diseases and metabolic disorders in conjunction with many
high profile corporate partners.

Unfortunately, Vical`s stock price doesn`t reflect the
strong strides the company has made this year. The
stock`s most recent high, $19.50, was reached at the end
of May 1996. Since then it has moved progressively
downhill, nearing its all time low of $7.66, reached in
August of 1998.

Patented "Naked DNA" Technology
One of the biggest hurdles in gene therapy is effectively
and safely delivering the required gene to target cells in
sufficient quantities.

Most gene transfer therapies rely on non-viral or viral
(transmission via a virus) vector technologies for gene
delivery. Viral vectors suffer certain drawbacks, including
adverse immune responses, tissue inflammation that may
hinder the therapy, and the inducement of changes in the
patient`s genetic makeup.

Vical has developed a patented non-viral technology for
genetic transfer, whereby the company`s synthetic DNA
formulations, better known as "naked DNA," that are
combined with plasmids containing the required gene, can
be delivered via intramuscular injection directly into cells.

For delivery into non-muscular tissue, Vical adds
cytofectins, proprietary lipid, or fat, substances. These
positively charged lipid molecules are combined with
negatively charged DNA, which can be delivered directly
to the patient using a syringe or a catheter.

"Vical has a novel approach," says Nick Woolf, biotech
analyst for BancBoston Robertson Stephens. "Using
charged fats to part into cells - it`s an elegant concept."

Vical`s delivery technologies are deemed to be more
convenient, safer, and more cost-effective than viral
vectors or ex-vivo (out of body) approaches.

Vical currently has three major products that are in
advanced stages of clinical trials. Allovectin-7, which uses
a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system attack
cancer cells, is in Phase III testing for melanoma and in
Phase II testing for head and neck cancer.

BancBoston expects trials for Allovectin-7 for melanoma
to be completed in mid-2000 and believes that a product
launch in 2001 is possible.

Another product, Leuvectin, which uses a lipid-DNA
complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer
cells, is in Phase II testing for renal cancer, and in Phase
I/II for prostate cancer. Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine to
prevent the relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II
testing.

In the Pipeline
In collaboration with many pharmaceutical firms, Vical has
moved to the research/preclinical stage for preventive
DNA vaccines and therapeutic protein DNA for a variety
of infectious diseases and metabolic disorders.

"The company has established partnerships with top
pharmaceutical companies, leveraging preventive and
therapeutic vaccine applications of it naked DNA
technology," said the BancBoston report.

Partners include Merck (quote, chart, profile), Pfizer
(quote, chart, profile), Pasteur Merieux Connaught,
Rhone-Poulenc Rorer (quote, chart, profile), Centocor
(quote, chart, profile), Merial, and Boston Scientific
Corporation (quote, chart, profile).

Merck has invested roughly $17 million for licenses using
Vical`s naked DNA technology for seven infectious
diseases, including influenza, HIV, herpes, hepatitis B and
C, and tuberculosis. Merck is expected to advance an HIV
vaccine into human testing by the first half of 1999.

The company has an agreement with Pasteur Merieux
Connaught to develop vaccines against malaria, lyme
disease, and H. Pylori. Vical has received $7.4 million from
Pasteur Merieux Connaught for developing vaccine
products using both naked DNA and cytofectin
technologies.

Vical is also working with Genzyme to develop therapeutic
protein DNA for cystic fibrosis, and is working on its own
accord to develop a DNA vaccine for chlamydia. To date,
Vical has received $2.3 million from Genzyme.

Most recently, Vical has entered into a license and option
agreement granting Pfizer the rights to use Vical`s
patented naked DNA gene delivery technologies for
certain animal health applications. Pfizer is paying Vical
$8.5 million, but Vical stands to gain more than $40 million
on product sales.

Other agreements with Centocor, Rhone-Poulenc Rorer,
Merial, and Boston Scientific have thus far generated
roughly $4 million.

On the Verge of a Breakthrough
As with any biotech company, there are risks, namely
exorbitant costs, delays in product development,
regulatory issues, and unreliability of revenue streams and,
therefore, earnings.

Vical reported fourth quarter 1998 revenues of $932,000
versus $2.33 million for the same period in 1997. Total
revenues for 1998 were $5.9 million versus $7.8 million in
1997. Vical reported a 1998 net loss of $7.5 million versus
$5.6 million in 1997. The company has posted losses since
going public in 1993.

In addition, partners have complete control over the
development process and may terminate agreements,
although this is highly unlikely.

But, BancBoston believes that Vical is off to a healthy
start this year, especially in the way of its proprietary
products, Allovectin-7 and Leuvectin.

"Initial clinical data looks good," days Woolf. At this stage
of the game, the team rates the company as a buy.

Moreover, BancBoston believes in the theory that
"biotech companies which invest in clinical development of
their products prior to licensing them will preserve the
greatest value."

Currently, Vical`s stock trades around the $10 level.
Continued positive results of clinical trials may lead to
major breakthroughs, not only for gene therapy, but also
for Vical`s stock.

Ich moechte noch ein ZiTat aus dem HOT STOCK INVESTOR (HSI) hinzufuegen: "Sämtliche Analysten gehen davon aus , dass mit den jetzt in der Entwicklung (VICAL) stehenden Präperaten die tür zu einer völlig neuen Welt der Immuntherapie aufgestossen wird" "sichern sie sich einen Einstieg in einen Wert mit Ausbruchspotential bis 200%" MEINUNGEN ERBETEN!


10/99
VICAL..

..ist jetzt auch in Berlin verfuegbar,klasse,
schaut doch mal rein , dieser noch-
-Geheimtip hat nicht eimal ein Zehntel
der Marktkapitalisierung von HGSI ,
Human Genome Sciences , kann aber dem
Vergleich LOCKER standhalten:
-BAHNBRECHENDE Patene in der Immuntherapie
(vor allem "naked DNA" ,Vical ,der Gen
technikspezialist fur Nutzung isolierter Dna Sequenzen als Impfstoff
gilt in Analystenkreisen, SG COWEN, als
"Favourit fuer die kommerzielle Umsetzung
gentechnischer Methoden in der modernen
Krebstherapie"

-Das Who is Who der Pharmabranche
steht auf Vical`s Lizensnehmer und Kooperationsliste
(Merck , Pfizer , Pasteur ,Rhone Polenc
Mosanto etc..)

-Drugs in Phase 2 (Leuvectin)und in Phase 3 (Allovectin) , etliche andere noch in Phase 1,2 und auch preclinical
schaut unter www.vical.com nach.

P.S Die Ergebnisse der Phase 2 Studien
Leuvectin sind im "Oncology Journal"
vor kurzem veroeffentlicht , schaut
unter http://jco.org/current.shtml
unter :Immunotherapy by direct Gene Tra
nsfer of an Interleukin , nach ,deren
unabhaengige Schlussbemerkung lautet:
Conclusion:
"Direct intratumoral injection of
Leuvectin is a safe and possibly effective immunotherapeutic approach
in the treatment of certain tumor types"

HERE WE HAVE A WINNER ...



14.3.2000
Global Biotech Investing hat gestern die Aktie Vical Inc. (WKN 886867) mit einem Kursziel von 150 $ angesetzt!

Derzeit notiert Vical bei 44 Euro in Frankfurt. An der Nasdag ging es noch weiter runter und Vical notiert derzeit bei 32,44 $ (High: 41,38$; Low: 28,25).

Die Technik von Vical Inc., genbehandeltes Material zu den Krebszellen zu transportieren, gelte als konkurrenzlos. Auch in der Entwicklung und Forschung von Medikamenten habe Vical einige heiße Eisen im Feuer.
Vical habe derzeit eine Marktkapitalisierung von USD1,3 MRD.. Auch nach der Kursverfünffachung in den letzten drei Monaten sei die Neubewertung der Aktie noch nicht abgeschlossen.
Die Empfehlung laute die Aktie nach einem erfolgreichen charttechnischen Break zu kaufen mit einem Stop-buy-Limit mit 74 Euro.

Naja, das mit dem Stop-buy-Limit wäre kein Problem, da der Wert in den letzten Tagen ziemlich verlor!

Was meint ihr, wäre ein Einstieg hier angebracht?
Ich werde morgen meine ersten Positionen aufbauen!

Gruß
Krisu1



14.3.00
Hey,

hatte auch mal Vical zu 11 Dollar gekauft ,dann bei 14,5 $ wieder..na ja
egal. Die "heissen Eisen" also Allovectin und Leuvectin ,falls die
gemeint sind, haben zwar den Orphan Drugstatus bekommen ,sind aber meiner
Meinung nach alles andere als heiss ,die Testergebnisse aus den Phase 3
Tests gegen Krebs ,mach dich mal schlau BEVOR du kaufst,sind eher
mässig bis untauglich ,wie gesagt ,meiner Meinung nach...
By the way ,was war noch empfohlen im GLOBAL BIOTECH ??
(Gab es Statements zu CHIRON ,AVIRON ,AVANT IMMUNOTHERAPEUTICS ,RIBOZYME,VIROPHARMA ?)

Regards
Checkmate



Vical Licenses Naked DNA Technology to Aventis Pharma for Growth Factor Delivery
SAN DIEGO, Jul 6, 2000 (BW HealthWire) -- Vical Inc. (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs) announced today a license agreement granting Aventis Pharma, the pharmaceutical company of Aventis S.A. (NYSE: AVE chart, msgs), rights to use Vical`s naked DNA gene transfer technology to deliver a growth factor gene for which Aventis Pharma holds rights.
Naked DNA is Vical`s patented method for delivering genes into cells in the body without using a virus. The agreement resulted in an initial payment to Vical of $1.5 million and could generate milestone payments plus royalties if products advance through commercialization.
Several companies have tested naked DNA delivery of angiogenic growth factor genes in tissues where disease has restricted blood flow. Administration of an angiogenic growth factor gene may stimulate localized growth of new blood vessels which may restore blood flow to the affected areas. Aventis Pharma initiated a clinical trial in 1999 testing naked DNA delivery of a gene encoding an angiogenic growth factor in patients with critical limb ischemia, a severe loss of blood flow caused by blockage of arteries feeding the foot and lower leg.
Vical Inc., The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck, Pfizer, Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Centocor, Human Genome Sciences, Merial and Boston Scientific. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin, which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with kidney cancer and prostate cancer. Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine to prevent relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II testing. In collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, a naked DNA vaccine to treat metastatic melanoma is in Phase I/II testing.




Vical Releases Allovectin-7 Results At International Head and Neck Cancer Conference
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug 1, 2000 (BW HealthWire) -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs) released results from Phase I and Phase II clinical studies and concluded that treatment with Allovectin-7(R) appears to be safe and that further studies are warranted in patients with less-advanced head and neck cancer. Results from three sequential clinical trials testing Allovectin-7(R) in patients with advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck were presented by Lyon L. Gleich, M.D. (University of Cincinnati Medical Center), at the Fifth International Conference on Head and Neck Cancer. The company is planning a new study in patients scheduled for surgical treatment of earlier-stage head and neck cancer.
Data were compiled from a single-center, Phase I study and two multi-center, Phase II studies for patients with unresectable head and neck cancer who had failed to respond to conventional therapies. Of 60 HLA-B7 negative patients from the three trials, 6 patients achieved clinical responses (50 percent or greater reduction in tumor burden), and 14 achieved stable disease (less than 50 percent reduction or less than 25 percent increase in tumor burden), upon completing the first treatment cycle. The 20 responding or stable patients went on to a second treatment cycle. Upon completing the second treatment cycle, five patients had a partial response, six patients had stable disease. The duration of response for the five responding patients ranged from 20 to 79 weeks. The duration of response for the six stable patients ranged from 18 weeks (and remaining stable) to 34 weeks. Allovectin-7(R) was generally well-tolerated, with no serious drug-related side effects. Deirdre Y. Gillespie, M.D., Vical`s Chief Operating Officer, said, "We are eager to move forward with an additional study designed for earlier-stage patients, a population whose disease and prior treatments have not compromised the immune system."
Allovectin-7(R) is a DNA/lipid complex containing the human gene encoding the HLA-B7 antigen. This antigen alerts the immune system to the presence of foreign tissue, and may trigger an immune response against tumor cells.

_ Advanced Head and Neck Cancer
In advanced head and neck cancer, radical surgery and/or radiation therapy may be preceded by systemic chemotherapy to improve treatability, or followed by systemic chemotherapy to address remaining cancer cells, most often with a combination of agents. The five-year survival rate for head and neck cancer patients with widespread, unresectable malignancies is less than 5 percent. The median survival for patients with local and disseminated recurrent head and neck cancer is about 6 months. These statistics have not been affected by chemotherapy or other experimental agents to date.

_ Allovectin-7(R) in Melanoma
As previously reported, Vical also is conducting studies of Allovectin-7(R) in metastatic melanoma. Enrollment of patients in the company`s Phase II trial is nearing completion, and enrollment of patients in the Phase III trial is progressing toward possible completion in the first half of 2001. Dr. Gillespie said, "Recruitment of patients into our Phase III trial, our first melanoma trial designed for patients who have a significant choice of treatment alternatives, remains our highest priority and our greatest challenge. We believe that Allovectin-7(R) may have the potential to fulfill a significant, unmet need in the treatment of metastatic melanoma."




Vical Announces Second-Quarter 2000 Financial Results
SAN DIEGO, Aug 7, 2000 (BW HealthWire) -- Vical Inc. (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs) announced today its results of operations for the second quarter ended June 30, 2000.
The company reported second-quarter 2000 revenues of $2.8 million compared with second-quarter 1999 revenues of $1.3 million. The net loss for the second quarter of 2000 was $0.8 million or $0.04 per share, compared with a net loss of $3.1 million or $0.19 per share for the same period in 1999.
Second-quarter 2000 revenues included $1.5 million related to the previously announced license agreement with Aventis Pharma, the pharmaceutical company of Aventis S.A. (NYSE: AVE chart, msgs), covering the use of Vical`s naked DNA gene transfer technology to deliver a growth factor gene. Also included in second-quarter 2000 revenues was $0.3 million of contract revenue under a recently amended multi-year contract with the Office of Naval Research for development work on a naked DNA vaccine to prevent malaria. The amendment added $2.7 million to the existing contract for a total of up to $5.5 million. Through June 30, 2000, we have recognized $2.8 million of the total contract amount.
"Financial results for the second quarter of 2000 were consistent with our expectations," said Martha J. Demski, Vical`s chief financial officer. "We were able to offset a significant portion of our spending with revenues from the Aventis agreement and interest income on the increased cash balances resulting from our January stock offering."
For the six months ended June 30, 2000, Vical`s net loss was $3.7 million or $0.19 per share, compared with a net loss of $3.9 million or $0.24 per share for the first six months of 1999. At June 30, 2000, the company had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $151.2 million, compared with $37.7 million at Dec. 31, 1999.
Vical Inc., The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Pfizer Inc., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Centocor Inc., Merial, Human Genome Sciences and Boston Scientific Corp. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with unresectable head and neck cancer. Leuvectin, which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with kidney cancer and prostate cancer. Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine to prevent relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II testing. In collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, a naked DNA vaccine to treat metastatic melanoma is in Phase I/II testing.
This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements, including whether any product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials, the timing of clinical trials, whether Vical will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, and additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those projected. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
For news releases and other information about the company, visit the Vical Web site at www.vical.com.

_ VICAL INC.
_ STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
_ (in thousands, except share and per share amounts)
_
_ Three Months Ended Six Months Ended
_ June 30, June 30,
_ ------------------ -----------------
_ 2000 1999 2000 1999
_ ---- ---- ---- ----
_ (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)(Unaudited)
_Revenues:
_ License/royalty
_ revenue $ 2,243 $ 610 $ 2,859 $ 3,276
_ Contract revenue 521 643 903 1,258
_ ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
_ 2,764 1,253 3,762 4,534
_
_
_Expenses:
_ Research and development 4,710 3,737 9,027 7,352
_ General and
_ administrative 1,310 1,122 2,640 2,135
_ ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
_ 6,020 4,859 11,667 9,487
_
_Loss from operations (3,256) (3,606) (7,905) (4,953)
_Net interest income 2,438 538 4,176 1,076
_ ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
_Net loss $ (818) $ (3,068) $ (3,729) $ (3,877)
_ ========== ========== ========== ==========
_
_Net loss per share
_ (Basic and diluted) $ (0.04) $ (0.19) $ (0.19) $ (0.24)
_ ========== ========== ========== ==========
_Shares used in
_ per share
_ calculation 19,822,669 16,190,840 19,422,295 16,072,318
_ ========== ========== ========== ==========
_
_
_ CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
_ (in thousands)
_
_ June 30, Dec. 31,
_ 2000 1999
_ -------- --------
_ (Unaudited)
_Assets
_ Cash and cash equivalents $ 35,948 $ 11,149
_ Marketable securities 115,289 26,525
_ Other current assets 4,879 3,972
_ ---------- ----------
_ Total current assets 156,116 41,646
_ Investment, at cost 5,000 --
_ Property and equipment, net 3,003 1,886
_ Other assets 1,575 1,527
_ ---------- ----------
_ $ 165,694 $ 45,059
_ ========== ==========
_
_Liabilities and Stockholders` Equity
_ Current liabilities $ 6,363 $ 5,650
_ Long-term obligations 5,373 740
_Stockholders` equity 153,958 38,669
_ ---------- ----------
_ $ 165,694 $ 45,059




.........................................................................
10.8.2000, gefunden bei siliconinvestor.com:

comments from Bullmarket Biotech advisor today:
VICAL (VICL, $17) reported a second quarter net loss of $0.8 million or
($0.04) per share on revenues of $3 million. The company ended the
quarter with $151 million cash or the equivalent of $7 per share. Vical
is a gene therapy company that is developing naked DNA therapeutics to
treat various forms of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders.
During the Biotech stock rally in March, the stock traded in the high
60`s. Unfortunately, since that time, the stock has not approached any
sort of recovery. While it is true that the company is not showing much
revenue growth, Vical is the best-positioned company for naked DNA gene
therapy. The company has a tremendous patent position on the technology
and has formed alliances with Merck (MRK, $71), Pfizer (PFE, $43), Aventis
(AVE, $75), Centocor, Human Genome Sciences (HGSI, $148) and Boston
Scientific (BSX, $17). The company needs to get its products into Phase
III studies and then we may see some upward activity in the stock price.

[gholzbauer]

Vical to Begin Collaborative Naked DNA Safety and Efficacy Vaccine Trial for Malaria
SAN DIEGO, Aug 22, 2000 (BW HealthWire) -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs), in collaboration with Aventis Pasteur and the U.S. Navy, today announced the beginning of a clinical trial to test the safety, immunogenicity and protective efficacy of a multi-gene DNA vaccine intended to prevent infection by the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum (Pf).

Testing will be conducted by a team of U.S. Navy Malaria Program investigators led by Capt. Stephen L. Hoffman, M.D. and Capt. Thomas L. Richie, M.D. The vaccine, designated MuStDO 5, incorporates five genes that are designed to cause production of Pf immunogens and trigger an immune response against the malaria parasite in the sporozoite and liver stages of its life cycle. Earlier clinical testing demonstrated safety and immunogenicity of a single-gene Pf DNA vaccine, and guided dosing and delivery methods.

In this first Phase II controlled challenge trial, the MuStDO 5 DNA vaccine will include dose escalation of a naked DNA agent encoding granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF), an immune system stimulant.

Research and testing are being supported by the Department of Defense Military Infectious Diseases Research Program, the Office of Naval Research`s Advanced Technology Development Program and the pharmaceutical company Aventis Pasteur, which has licensed the technology from Vical for commercialization of preventive DNA vaccines against various infectious diseases. The Office of Naval Research recently amended a multi-year contract with Vical for development work on a naked DNA vaccine to prevent malaria, adding $2.7 million in funding for a total of up to $5.5 million.

"Successful proof of principle in our earlier trials gave us the confidence to design the current trial," said Dr. Hoffman. "We hope that our steady progress with DNA vaccine development is bringing us closer to the establishment of a new method to prevent malaria and other infectious diseases."

Deirdre Y. Gillespie, M.D., chief operating officer of Vical, said, "We are excited by our progress with this potential DNA vaccine for malaria. Our proprietary technology offers a promising, novel approach for diseases such as malaria for which there currently is no available vaccine."


Vaccine Background
Vaccines are among the most cost-effective tools available in health care. Conventional vaccines use disabled or killed infectious organisms, or proteins specific to them, to generate an immune response. However, scientists have been unable to develop effective conventional vaccines against a wide variety of the most common infectious diseases in the world such as malaria, AIDS, dengue fever and tuberculosis, against highly fatal diseases such as Ebola and Lassa fever, or against biological warfare threats. DNA vaccines use a new approach that may overcome technical limitations of conventional vaccines and may offer advantages in safety and efficacy.


Naked DNA Technology
A typical human cell contains thousands of different proteins essential to cellular structure, growth and function. Proteins are produced by the cell according to genetic instructions encoded by the cell`s DNA. DNA is organized into segments called genes, with each gene containing the information required to produce a specific protein. Normally, human genes in human cells cause production of human proteins, which cause a desired biological effect. If foreign, non-human genes, such as those of a pathogen, are introduced into human cells, they cause production of foreign proteins, or immunogens. The body`s immune system, in turn, produces antibodies, which prevent the pathogen from attaching to additional cells, and/or T cells which directly or indirectly attack cells infected by the pathogen. Stimulation of an immune response through the introduction of foreign genes and the resulting production of immunogens is the principle behind DNA vaccines.

Vical has developed core technologies that allow the direct delivery of synthetic DNA formulations into living cells. Vical`s DNA delivery technology involves the design and construction of plasmids, highly stable closed loop DNA segments. These plasmids contain the gene that encodes the protein of interest, as well as short segments of DNA that control the production of the protein. These plasmids can be manufactured through efficient fermentation and purification techniques. The technology is called "naked DNA" because the plasmids are not carried by any delivery vehicle and do not contain any component of the infectious agent.

Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Pfizer Inc., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Centocor Inc., Merial, Human Genome Sciences and Boston Scientific Corporation. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with unresectable head and neck cancer. Leuvectin, which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with kidney cancer and prostate cancer. Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine to prevent relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II testing. In collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, a naked DNA vaccine to treat metastatic melanoma is in Phase I/II testing.

The U.S. Navy conducts research into the many health threats to members of the U.S. military. One of the major threats to American military forces is malaria, which still afflicts hundreds of millions of people worldwide every year. During the twentieth century among U.S. fighting forces operating in areas where malaria has been transmitted, malaria has been responsible for more casualties to Americans than hostile fire. The U.S. Navy Malaria Program is staffed by military and civilian research staff. The U.S. Department of Defense also conducts related malaria research efforts in Indonesia, Peru, Ghana, Thailand and Kenya.

Aventis Pasteur, formerly Pasteur Merieux Connaught, is a world leader in vaccines with the broadest range of products, and produces more than one billion doses of vaccines every year to immunize 400 million people around the world. Aventis Pasteur, headquartered in Lyons, France, is one of the pharmaceutical activities of Aventis S.A. Aventis S.A. was launched in December 1999 through the merger of Hoechst AG of Germany and Rhone-Poulenc S.A. of France. Aventis S.A. employs about 95,000 people in more than 120 countries and recorded pro forma sales in 1999 of 20.5 billion euros ($20.7 billion).

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements, including whether any product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials, the timing of clinical trials, whether Vical or Aventis Pasteur will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, and additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those projected. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

For news releases and other information about the company, visit the Vical Web site at www.vical.com.
Contact:

[KMS]

Habe schon ein paar VICAL im Depot. VICAL scheint bisher vergessen worden zu sein. Nach den heutigen News könnte endlich Schub in die Aktie kommen. Haben die nicht auch -neben der genetischen Malaria-Vaccine- ein Krebsmittel in sehr weit fortgeschrittener Entwicklung ?
Gruß
KMS

[puhvogel]

Ja die haben auch eine Phase3 -Studie bei malignen Melanomen.
Man sollte aber nicht vergessen, dass die Zwischenergebnisse in der ASCO-Tagung dieses Frühjahr von den Onkologen etwas enttäuscht aufgenommen wurden.
Quelle: Aktuelles Krebsfeature bei biospace.com
Aber vielleicht überraschen die Phase3-Daten wieder positiv.
Der Puhvogel

[gholzbauer]

Gefunden bei Siliconinvestor.

"...Shares of VICAL (VICL, $20) moved 20% higher in the after-hours session on
Wednesday as the company`s COO talked with CNBC hosts about the initiation
of a clinical trial for malaria and ongoing trials for melanoma. Vical
announced on Tuesday, in collaboration with the U.S. Navy and Aventis
Pasteur, the initiation of a clinical trial to test the safety and
efficacy of a multigene DNA vaccine intended to prevent infection by the
malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The vaccine consists of five
malarial genes that, when expressed, are designed to act as immunogens
inducing immune responses against the malaria parasite. Approximately 400
million people become infected with malaria each year and the annual
mortality rate is close to 3 million individuals.
Vical is the leading company using naked DNA as a therapeutic. The
company has developed such a strong patent position for naked DNA
technologies that companies desiring to perform clinical DNA studies need
to establish alliances with Vical. Currently, Vical has alliances with
ISIS PHARMACUETICALS (ISIP, $12), MERCK (MRK, $72), AVENITS (AVE, $75),
PFIZER (PFE, $43), GENZYME (GENZ, $71) and HUMAN GENOME SCIENCES (HGSI,
$138). Vical is in the midst of a Phase III clinical trial for metastatic
melanoma using Allovectin-7 and Phase II clinical trials for kidney cancer
and prostate cancer using Leuvectin.
Shares of Vical reached a high of $74 earlier in the year during the
Biotech stock mania; however, the stock has been trading in a basing
pattern between $17 and $23 since mid-April. Given the long flat trading
range, it would not be unusual to see this stock advance well above $25..."

"...Robert Mendoza, Ph.D.
Contributing Editor
The Bull Market Biotech Investor
[e-mail]

Robert Mendoza has monitored and made investments in the Biotech sector
since 1985 and is currently a freelance writer. He earned a doctoral
degree in Molecular Biology from the University of California at Berkeley
and also holds a Master`s degree in Chemistry from the California State
University at Fullerton. Robert has performed over a decade of research
studies encompassing the fields of gene therapy, virology, immunology and
molecular biology. At the current time, Dr. Mendoza does not hold a
position in the companies discussed in this article..."

[flatus]

na also, da kommen sie endlich!!!

als absoluter VICAL-Fan bin ich natuerlich gut bestueckt in die neue Runde eingetreten.

Was die etwas enttauschenden Ergebnisse zu Allovestin in Ph II betrifft (hier im thread etwas weiter oben angesprochen), so muss man wissen, dass hier patienten behandelt wurden, die als austherapiert galten und vorher bis zum stehkragen mit Zytostatika vollgepumpt wurden. Dass da keine Immuntherapie der Welt noch etwas anrichten kann, vesteht sich von selbst.
Der Aufbau der Ph III ist anders.Hier sehe ich grosse Chancen.

Gruss flatus

[gholzbauer]

Investigational Treatment for Melanoma, The Most Deadly Skin Cancer, Shows Promise in Clinical Trials - McCain Diagnosis Emphasizes Need to Investigate New Treatments Such As Allovectin-7(R), an Immunotherapy Designed to Help the Body Attack Cancer Cells - - People Interested in a Phase III Trial Can Call 1-877-343-6389 -
CHICAGO, Aug 31, 2000 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Following the recent announcement that Arizona Senator John McCain has been diagnosed with a recurring melanoma, increased emphasis is placed on potential new treatments for the late stages of the disease.

"Although it`s best to catch skin cancer before it progresses, most people aren`t diagnosed until their disease is more advanced," said Jon Richards, M.D., of Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge, IL. "There`s too much at stake not to investigate new treatments -- someone dies every hour from melanoma."(1)

One of Dr. Richards` melanoma patients, Linn Barbier, once thought she might become another melanoma statistic. After her diagnosis in 1995, Barbier tried chemotherapy and radiation treatments, which caused serious side effects. When her cancer persisted, Dr. Richards suggested that she enroll in a clinical trial of Allovectin-7(R), a gene-based immunotherapy thought to stimulate the immune system to fight cancer.

Previous clinical studies suggest that Allovectin-7(R) may shrink some tumors and stabilize the disease. Although not all patients will experience this dramatic benefit, or any benefit at all, Dr. Richards reports that doctors have since been unable to detect cancer in Barbier. "I`m hopeful that more patients like Linn will benefit from treatments such as Allovectin-7(R)," said Dr. Richards.

Generally, there are three approved methods for treating melanoma cancer -- surgery, radiation and chemotherapy/biotherapy. Now researchers are hopeful that immunotherapy, such as Allovectin-7(R), may provide physicians with a new weapon against metastatic melanoma.

One advantage of a gene-based immunotherapy, such as Allovectin-7(R), may be reduced toxicity compared with currently available treatments. While Dr. Richards reports that to date Barbier has experienced no serious side effects related to Allovectin-7(R), the treatment may cause complications in some patients.

Vical Incorporated currently is inviting individuals with advanced-stage disease to consider participating in a Phase III clinical trial of Allovectin-7(R) being conducted at over 50 medical centers across the country. Because the body does not always recognize cancer cells as foreign invaders, Vical Incorporated believes that injecting Allovectin-7(R) into a tumor may flag the tumor for "killer T-cells" to attack and destroy. The controlled, randomized trial involves only individuals with metastatic melanoma that has spread from one part of the body to another. Interested individuals can call 1-877-343-6389 or visit http://www.vical.com to learn if they are eligible to participate.

About melanoma

Melanoma results when pigment cells in the skin become cancerous.(2) If melanoma spreads, the cancer cells can be transferred to other organs, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver or brain.(3) Approximately 48,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in the United States this year, a rise of eight percent over last year. Among Caucasians, who are at greatest risk for the disease, the incidence of melanoma tripled between 1980 and 2000.(4)

About Vical Incorported

Allovectin-7(R) is being developed by Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs), a San Diego-based company focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology for the possible prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders.

[wiwogo]

Habe VICAL schon eine ganze Weile auf meiner Watchlist. Der Chart sieht verdammt nach Ausbruch aus!!
25 USD abwarten und dann rein ?!

Gruß wiwogo

[gholzbauer]

!

Dieser Beitrag wurde vom System automatisch gesperrt. Bei Fragen wenden Sie sich bitte an [e-mail]

[gholzbauer]

U.S. Navy Begins Additional Clinical Trial of Malaria DNA Vaccine With Bioject Delivery System
PORTLAND, Ore., Sep 6, 2000 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Bioject Medical Technologies Inc. (Nasdaq: BJCT chart, msgs), the leading developer of needle-free drug delivery systems, today announced that the U.S. Naval Medical Research Center began a clinical study of a DNA-based malaria vaccine. The DNA-based malaria vaccine is made by Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs) (San Diego, CA), and Vical has licensed DNA-based malaria vaccines to Aventis Pasteur, (NYSE: AVE chart, msgs).

Testing is being conducted by a team of U.S. Navy Malaria Program investigators led by CAPT Stephen L. Hoffman, M.D. and CAPT Thomas L. Richie, M.D, PhD. The vaccine, designated MuStDO 5, incorporates five genes that are designed to trigger an immune response against the malaria parasite.

In the current trial, the Biojector(R) 2000 is being used for all injections of the vaccine. Earlier clinical testing demonstrated safety and immunogenicity of a single-gene vaccine, and indicated that vaccine delivered with the Biojector(R) 2000 needle free injection system elicited a strong cellular immune response.

"Successful proof of principle in our earlier trials gave us the confidence to design the current trial," said CAPT Hoffman, Director of the Navy Malaria Program. "We were pleased by the immune response of the vaccine delivered with the Biojector(R) 2000 in earlier trials. We plan to continue to evaluate the Biojector for delivery of DNA malaria vaccines."

"Through our research collaborations, Bioject has been focused on the delivery of DNA vaccines for some time," said Jim O`Shea, Bioject`s chairman, president and CEO. "By potentially improving the immune response of DNA-based vaccines, our needle-free technology could add value to the efforts of researchers developing ways to combat complex diseases such as malaria."

Bioject Medical Technologies, Inc., located in Portland, Oregon, is an innovative developer and manufacturer of drug delivery systems. The company`s advanced delivery system, the Biojector(R) 2000, injects medication without a needle. The Biojector(R) employs compressed gas as a power source to force medication at high speeds through a tiny orifice, penetrating the skin and delivering medication to either the subcutaneous or intramuscular level. Using needle-free technology to administer injections virtually eliminates the risk of contaminated needlestick injury and resulting blood-borne pathogen transmission, a major concern throughout the healthcare industry. The Biojector 2000 has received the Seal of Acceptance from the Alliance of Children`s Hospitals, Inc.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements concerning the ability of the company`s products to enhance delivery of DNA-based vaccines. Such forward looking-statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the company, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors include, without limitation, the risk that research and development results will not show that the company`s products enhance delivery of DNA-based vaccines and uncertainties related to i.) the time required to complete research and development, ii.) obtaining necessary clinical data, and iii.) the U.S. Navy`s, Vical`s, and Aventis` continuing commitment to the project. Readers of this press release are referred to the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the company`s Annual Report on Form 10-K/A for the year ended March 31, 2000 for further discussion of factors which could affect future results.

Forward-looking statements are based on the estimates and opinions of management on the date the statements are made, and the Company assumes no obligation to update forward-looking statements if conditions or management`s estimates or opinions should change.

Source: Bioject Medical Technologies Inc.

[gholzbauer]

Vical schmiert ab. 23$. Bald Nachkaufgelegenheit.

[gholzbauer]

Vical Presents Interim Data on Leuvectin Phase II Trial At CaP CURE Prostate Cancer Conference
SAN DIEGO, Sep 25, 2000 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs) today announced interim results from an ongoing Phase II clinical trial testing Leuvectin, a novel, gene-based immunotherapy, in prostate cancer patients who have failed radiation therapy.

Failure of radiation therapy is usually detected through blood tests showing increasing levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA, an indication of prostate cancer activity). Of the first six patients enrolled in this trial, all with rising PSA levels at the time they entered the trial, two have slowed or stopped their increase in serum PSA levels. Treatments with Leuvectin also appear to be safe and well-tolerated, with no serious side effects reported in the interim analysis. The trial continues to enroll patients at UCLA and the Cleveland Clinic.

Deirdre Gillespie, M.D., Chief Operating Officer, reported the interim data at the 8th Annual CaP CURE conference on September 23, 2000. Dr. Gillespie commented, "Our Phase II trial is on-going, but early results appear to be heading in the right direction. We were very pleased to have an opportunity to discuss these early results at the CaP CURE conference." CaP CURE, founded in 1993 by Michael Milken, is a patient advocacy organization that supports research to develop treatments for prostate cancer. The annual CaP CURE conference attracts top prostate cancer researchers and high-profile prostate cancer patients to discuss the latest developments in the field.

[TOP TIP]

VICAL HEUTE FAST 10% IN DEN USA.
GERÜCHTEWEISE SOLLEN HEISSE MELDUNGEN BEVORSTEHEN.
WAR DIESE WOCHE TOP TIP DES TAGES BEI GLOBAL BIOTECHINVESTING.
SCHÄTZE DIE WISSEN WOHL SCHON WIEDER ETWAS MEHR.
HABE SELBST DEN TOP TIP DES TAGES SCHON 5 mal BEFOLGT UND GUTES GELD
DABEI VERDIENT. 4 x PLUS 1 MAL HAT SICH NICHTS GETAN.
HABE GESTERN GEKAUFT HEUTE SCHON IM PLUS.

Gruss an alle ,werde mich mal verstärkt nach VICAL umhören.Wenn ich was höre werde ich es reinstellen.


MFG TOP TIP

[Amhairgin]

Schreib mir/uns doch `mal, wie man an Global Biotechinvesting `rankommt!? Danke!!!

[TOP TIP]

ADRESSE:BÖRSE INSIDE
REDAKTIONS BÜRO DEUTSCHLAND
POSTFACH 1222
D-79343 ENDINGEN

Kann dort bestellt werden oder telefonisch:07642-90778-20 FAX:[phone]

Lohnt sich sicher.

PS:Gehöre nicht zu der Firma.Keine Schleichwerbung.

[KMS]

Was ist los bei VICAL? Kursrückgang wegen news oder nur im Rahmen der derzeitigen Marktentwicklung?
Jetzt zukaufen oder noch abwarten?
Ich möchte in Biotech anlegen (mindestens 1 Jahr), und habe schon (einige wenige) VICAL.

Gruß
KMS

[gholzbauer]

Ich denke, die allgemeine Marktentwicklung + charttechnisches Füllen des Gaps aus dem August bei ca. 21$ waren für Rückgang verantwortlich. Ich glaube zwar eigentlich nicht an diese seltsame Gap-filling-Theorie, doch sie ist zur Zeit äußerst beliebt und wirkt vermutlich wie eine selbsterfüllende Prophezeiung, weil sich die Marktteilnehmer danach richten. D.h. weil alle das Erreichen/Füllen des Gaps erwarten, wird bei darüber liegenden Kursen von den Haltern der Aktie in Erwartung sinkender Kurse eher verkauft, während die potenziellen Käufer sich mit Kaufaufträgen eher zurückhalten, was zusammen tatsächlich fallende Kurse bis zu dem Gap hin verursacht.
Hier nochmal der Chart mit der August-Lücke:
http://www.siliconinvestor.com/research/chart.gsp?s=VICL

[steff12345]

Aktienaufkauf durch Bank zu 22 US-Dollar? Ist etwas im Busch ?
Müsste positiv sein, oder ?

[gholzbauer]

Weiß ich nichts von.
Welche Bank?
Kann ich mir nicht vorstellen.

[steff12345]

Auszug:
Sehr geehrter Kunde,
die Corporate Investments Inc. bietet Ihnen als Aktionär der obigen Gesellschaft ein Übernahme-/ Abfindungsangebot für Ihre oben genannten Aktien an.
Bei Annahme des Angebotes erhalten Sie unter Abgabe Ihrer Aktien folgende Konditionen:
Frist bis: 31.10.00
Barausschüttung: 22 .- USD

usw.

Das Ganze kam von Consors.
Ich habe schon gesucht, aber leider nicht´s näheres gefunden.

[gholzbauer]

Ich habe schon öfter von solchen, manchmal dubiosen, Angeboten gehört, und 1 oder 2mal selber sowas bekommen. Ich würde es ignorieren, da es passieren kann, daß man seine Aktien an diese Firma überträgt und später die versprochenen 22$ nicht bekommt. Zudem kann es sein, daß ein paar Schlauberger dieses Angebot zu einem Zeitpunkt gemacht haben, als VICL noch über 22$ notierten, und gehofft haben, daß ein paar Leute darauf hereinfallen und unter Kurs verkaufen, d.h. bei den jetzigen Kursen unter 22$ wollen diese Leute die 22$-VICL evtl. gar nicht mehr.
Daß das Angebot von Consors übermittelt wurde, muß nicht heißen, daß es seriös ist. Die Depotbank leitet so etwas nur weiter.
Wie gesagt: am besten ignorieren, VICL sind ohnehin schon wieder bei 20 1/4$.
Bei 16$ habe ich gestern nicht nachgekauft, ich Trottel! Kohle wär da gewesen. Schade.
Ein geruhsames Wochenende wünscht
gholzbauer

[gholzbauer]

Vical Announces Third-Quarter 2000 Financial Results
SAN DIEGO, Nov 6, 2000 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs) announced today its results of operations for the third quarter ended September 30, 2000. The company reported third-quarter 2000 revenues of $1.4 million compared with third-quarter 1999 revenues of $1.2 million. The net loss for the third quarter of 2000 was $1.9 million or $0.09 per share, compared with a net loss of $2.8 million or $0.18 per share for the same period in 1999.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2000, Vical`s net loss was $5.6 million or $0.29 per share, compared with a net loss of $6.7 million or $0.42 per share for the first nine months of 1999. For both quarterly and year-to-date comparisons with the prior year, increased interest income on the higher cash balances resulting from the company`s January 2000 stock offering more than offset increased spending primarily associated with the company`s late-stage clinical trials. At September 30, 2000, the company had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $150.4 million, compared with $37.7 million at December 31, 1999.

"Financial results for the third quarter and first nine months of 2000 were in line with our expectations," said Deirdre Y. Gillespie, M.D., Vical`s Chief Operating Officer. "We continued to focus our resources on clinical development programs and research activities directed toward expanding our product pipeline. Strategic investments provide the potential opportunities to further leverage our technologies through independent and collaborative product development."

Recent Development

Researchers at Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK chart, msgs) and Harvard University/Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center reported in the October 20, 2000, issue of Science successful testing in monkeys of an HIV vaccine under Merck`s license of Vical`s patented naked DNA vaccine technology. The vaccine, given alone or in combination with a booster (interleukin-2), protected the monkeys against a virulent strain of SHIV, a combination of simian (monkey) and human immunodeficiency virus. Seven of the eight test monkeys receiving a placebo vaccine developed AIDS, and four died. All eight monkeys receiving the booster vaccine, and two of four monkeys receiving the DNA vaccine alone, remained healthy. None of these 12 monkeys died during the 140-day observation period.

Merck is now developing vaccines based on Vical`s naked DNA vaccine technology to prevent and treat HIV infections. Merck is testing naked DNA vaccines for HIV in two human trials, one for uninfected volunteers and one for volunteers already infected with HIV and receiving highly active anti-retroviral therapy. The human testing began in December 1999.

Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Pfizer Inc., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with unresectable head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with kidney cancer and prostate cancer. Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine to prevent relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II testing. In collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, a naked DNA vaccine to treat metastatic melanoma is in Phase I/II testing.

This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Forward-looking statements include statements about the company`s focus, collaborative partners, product candidates, and developmental status. Risks and uncertainties include whether any product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials, the timing of clinical trials, whether Vical or its collaborative partners will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, and additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

For news releases and other information about the company, visit the Vical web site at www.vical.com.


VICAL INCORPORATED
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(in thousands, except share and per share amounts)

Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
September 30, September 30,
2000 1999 2000 1999
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Revenues:
Contract revenue $706 $734 $1,609 $1,992
License/royalty
revenue 724 495 3,583 3,771
1,430 1,229 5,192 5,763
Expenses:
Research and
development 4,524 3,514 13,551 10,866
General and
administrative 1,263 1,067 3,903 3,202
5,787 4,581 17,454 14,068
Loss from
operations (4,357) (3,352) (12,262) (8,305)
Net interest
income 2,486 515 6,662 1,591

Net loss $(1,871) $(2,837) $(5,600) $(6,714)
Net loss per share
(Basic and
diluted) $(0.09) $(0.18) $(0.29) $(0.42)

Shares used in
per share
calculation 19,896,427 16,196,078 19,581,493 16,114,024


CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)

September 30, December 31,
2000 1999
(Unaudited)
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents $19,786 $11,149
Marketable securities 130,620 26,525
Other current assets 3,367 3,972
Total current assets 153,773 41,646
Investment, at cost 5,000 --
Property and equipment, net 3,290 1,886
Other assets 1,696 1,527
$163,759 $45,059

Liabilities and Stockholders` Equity
Current liabilities $5,533 $5,650
Long-term obligations 5,158 740
Stockholders` equity 153,068 38,669
$163,759 $45,059



Source: Vical Incorporated

[gholzbauer]

Vical Announces the Issuance of U.S. Patent No. 6,147,055 For Cancer Treatment Using Gene-Based, Non-Viral Delivery of IL-2
SAN DIEGO, Nov 14, 2000 /PRNewswire via COMTEX/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL chart, msgs) announced today the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 6,147,055 covering the gene-based, non-viral delivery of interleukin-2 (IL-2) for the treatment of cancer.

Discovered and developed by Vical scientists, this patented gene-based treatment method delivers IL-2 locally within a tumor, and may provide similar benefits to systemic IL-2 protein therapy with fewer side effects. With Vical`s method, a highly stable ring of DNA is formulated with a cationic lipid to produce a non-viral delivery method for protein-producing genes. Once delivered, the genes may cause the malignant cells to produce IL-2 protein, which stimulates the immune system to attack and destroy the tumor. Recombinant IL-2 protein is an approved anti-cancer agent for the treatment of advanced kidney cancer and melanoma. When given systemically, it is frequently associated with serious side effects.

"Current uses of IL-2 systemic protein therapy have been limited by its toxicity," said Deirdre Y. Gillespie, M.D., Vical`s Chief Operating Officer. "Many potential patients are unable to tolerate the recommended doses, and some doctors have been reluctant to prescribe the treatment. We believe our patented delivery method may overcome that problem and make IL-2 more broadly available for cancer patients.

"We are currently conducting Phase II clinical trials of Leuvectin(TM), our IL-2 product candidate, as a potential treatment for renal and prostate cancers," added Dr. Gillespie. "IL-2 in gene-based or protein forms has been used by others for additional types of cancers. We believe this patent, which covers the use of gene-based IL-2 therapy for all tumor types, broadens our protection of potential market exclusivity for Leuvectin(TM)." In 1997, Vical was issued U.S. Patent No. 5,641,665 for the specific construct of Leuvectin(TM).

[HerrLehmann]

Ist das jetzt gut oder schlecht?
Dem Kurs hat es jedenfalls nicht geholfen. Schon wieder 4.4% Minus.

MfG

[gholzbauer]

test

[gholzbauer]

First Union Sec. haben Vical gestern aus der Coverage geworfen (coverage dropped). Vermutlich wg. schlechter Kursentwicklung. Bin gespannt, wann die depperten Analysten wieder zum Kaufen empfehlen, vermutlich bei 50$.

[puhvogel]

@ Lehmann: Patente zugeteilt zu bekommen, ist immer gut. Und so schlecht hält sich Vical gar nicht bei den Biotech-Smallcaps.
@ gholzbauer: Was begeistert Dich eigentlich an Vical? Die sind ja nicht die einzigen, die ein Produkt gegen maligne Melanome in der klinschen Endphase haben.
Und Gentherapie läßt sich ja bisher sehr zäh an.
Die Analysten covern auch nur Firmen die sie dafür sponsern (Durchführung einer Kapitalmaßnahme), es sei denn sie haben eine gewisse Marktkapitalisierung.
TIA
Der Puhvogel

[gholzbauer]

Hallo puhvogel,
übermäßig begeistert bin ich gar nicht, ich habe nur sehr wenige Anteile von VICL, was sich die nächsten Tage nach meinem Ausstieg aus PPDI jedoch ändern wird. Ich finde an VICL die scheinbar starke Patentstellung auf dem Gebiet der naked-DNA-Technologie interessant, was eine gewisse Alternative zur viralen DNA-Zuführung darstellt. Deshalb ist VICL eine "Komplementärposition" für meine ARIA, CEGE, TKTX.
Die Kooperationen mit bekannten Pharmafirmen (Merck & Co., Pfizer Inc., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation) sind für mich ein Indiz dafür, daß Insider VICLs Technologie durchaus Potenzial zumessen.
Zudem halte ich VICL für einen heißen Übernahmekandidaten.
Die Marktkapitalisierung von VICL abzüglich Cash ist für die 100-Mrd.-$-Pharma-Moloche ein Klacks, wenn man sich dadurch eine Schlüsseltechnologie sichern kann.

[gholzbauer]

Monday December 4, 9:11 am Eastern Time
Press Release
Therapeutic Levels of Factor VIII Gene Expression and Safety in Large Animals Show Promise for Clinical Application in Hemophilia
Data Reported At The American Society of Hematology
SAN DIEGO--(BW HealthWire)--Dec. 4, 2000-- GenStar Therapeutics (AMEX:GNT - news), a biotechnology company developing gene therapy products for the treatment of hemophilia A, prostate cancer, and AIDS, reported results of a study in large animals of the company`s Maximum Adenovirus Factor VIII vector (MAX-AD FVIII) for the treatment of hemophilia A.

``The results from this study in non-human primates confirm earlier investigations showing that a single injection of the MAX-AD FVIII vector can produce therapeutic levels of Factor VIII without adverse effects,`` stated Robert E. Sobol, M.D., chief executive officer of GenStar. ``These new data extend our previous findings and with the recent completion of required regulatory reviews, we look forward to the imminent initiation of human studies with the MAX-AD FVIII.``

GenStar`s MAX-AD FVIII gene therapy product for hemophilia A is a gene delivery system derived from the common cold virus. In contrast to earlier gene delivery approaches, GenStar`s product has been genetically modified to replace all the genes responsible for transmitting the virus with therapeutic genes that are responsible for the production of Factor VIII. Hemophilia A is a hereditary disease characterized by a deficiency in the blood clotting protein Factor VIII. GenStar`s product carries the entire human Factor VIII gene sequence and is designed to result in production of Factor VIII in the liver, one of its normal biological sites of production.

The study, presented at the American Society of Hematology Meeting in San Francisco, was designed to further assess the efficacy and safety of MAX-AD FVIII in larger animals. In non-human primate models, human Factor VIII expression was detected in a dose dependent manner in all treatment groups. No toxicity was observed at the dose levels planned for evaluation in clinical studies.

GenStar Therapeutics (www.genstar-rx.com) is a biotechnology company currently developing gene therapy products for the treatment of hemophilia A, prostate cancer, and AIDS. The company`s hemophilia product is being developed in collaboration with Baxter Healthcare and its prostate cancer product development program is supported, in part, by a grant from the National Cancer Institute.

[gholzbauer]

Thursday December 7, 4:08 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
SOURCE: Vical Incorporated
Vical Data Support Development of Gene-Based Cancer Therapies
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 7 /PRNewswire/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL - news) today is presenting data supporting conclusions that the excellent safety profile and encouraging efficacy results warrant continued development of the company`s gene-based immunotherapies.

The conclusions are based on comprehensive safety and efficacy data compiled from completed clinical trials with Allovectin-7® and Leuvectin(TM), Vical`s two leading cancer treatments, both using patented gene delivery methods to induce an immune response against tumor cells. Safety data are being presented today at the Ninth International Conference on Gene Therapy of Cancer by John Gutheil, M.D., Vical`s Executive Director, Clinical Research and Development. Evan M. Hersh, M.D., a clinical investigator at the Arizona Cancer Center, is scheduled to present updated safety and efficacy data on Saturday from recently completed trials with Allovectin-7® and Leuvectin(TM). In addition, the company announced the winners of this year`s Vical Best Abstracts Awards to recognize excellence in scientific submissions for the conference.

Vijay B. Samant, Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, ``We believe that our gene-based immunotherapies may provide a degree of efficacy comparable with approved cancer therapies, but with a much more favorable safety profile. Our synthetic, non-viral approach may also offer safety advantages over viral-based gene therapies in which the virus itself can attack the patient. We are very pleased to support those expectations with a comprehensive review of the completed trials with our two lead product candidates, Allovectin-7® and Leuvectin(TM). We also are pleased to recognize the scientists who prepared the most outstanding abstracts for this important conference.``

Safety Observations

Reported safety data were based on a thorough analysis of adverse events reports for the 471 patients who had been treated for various malignancies in 12 completed trials. Patients in clinical trials are closely monitored for any adverse events, which may include any complaints by the patient or observations by the treating staff. Many adverse events in patients with advanced cancer may be related to the disease rather than the treatment. Others may be linked to the procedure of administering the treatment, but not the treatment drug itself.

In the Vical trials, 76 percent of the adverse events were determined to be unrelated to either the study drugs or the administration. Seventeen percent were related to the study drugs, and 7 percent were related to the administration procedure. Among the drug-related adverse events, the most frequent complaints included local immune reactions (swelling or itching at the injection site), systemic immune reactions (chills, fever, or flu-like symptoms), or general side effects (muscle pain or fatigue) that may be considered evidence of the drug`s activity. The vast majority (99 percent) of the drug-related adverse events in Vical`s trials were considered minor (grade 1 or 2) and resolved rapidly with no treatment or with simple outpatient treatment.

The 1 percent of drug-related adverse events considered more serious ranged from headache to inflammation of the pancreas. These typically resolved during brief hospital stays and did not result in long-term complications.

Efficacy Observations

For Allovectin-7®, response data indicated that: 1) the response rate was higher in patients whose disease had not spread to multiple internal organs, 2) patients who responded to treatment experienced longer survival than patients who did not respond, 3) the highest local response rate was observed in tumors located in lymph nodes, and 4) the local response rate (significant shrinkage of treated tumors) was higher than the systemic response rate (significant shrinkage of all tumors).

For Leuvectin(TM), response data indicated that treatment provided clinical benefit in ``good risk`` kidney cancer patients whose disease was restricted to one or two sites and whose symptoms were minor. In addition, the treatment was well-tolerated, with only four serious side effects reported among the 61 patients in the study.

Allovectin-7® is currently in Phase III and Phase II testing in patients with advanced metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM) is currently in Phase II testing in patients with advanced metastatic kidney cancer and in patients with aggressive prostate cancer. Both product candidates use Vical`s patented naked DNA gene delivery technology in combination with patented cationic lipids (positively charged fatty substances) to insert genes into tumor cells. Those genes instruct the tumor cells to produce specific antigens -- proteins that cause the patient`s immune system to attack the tumor cells.

The Ninth International Conference on Gene Therapy of Cancer, sponsored by the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, a Sharp HealthCare affiliate, provides a forum for the exchange of scientific data for leading researchers from around the world. Scientists present the latest results of their pre-clinical and clinical studies of cancer treatment using gene therapy technology.

The program includes sessions focusing on immunogene therapy, suicide gene therapy, tumor suppressors, hematopoietic gene transfer, and vector systems. One winner was selected from each of the five topical areas covered at the conference. Abstracts were reviewed and selected by an independent committee. The winning abstracts are:


Author Affiliation Abstract Title

Tracy-Ann Read University of Bergen Local Anti-angiogenic
Norway Therapy of Gliomas
Delivered by Cells
Encapsulated in
Alginate: A Promising
New Therapeutic
Concept

Fei-Fei Liu, M.D. Ontario Cancer The Development
Institute of a Novel Epstein
Toronto, Canada Barr Virus-Targeted
Adenoviral Vector of
Cancer Gene Therapy

Frank C. Marini III, University of Texas Mesenchymal Stem
Ph.D. M.D. Anderson Cells (MSC) to
Cancer Center Deliver Localized
Houston, Texas Regulated Interferon-
Alpha 2B (INF alpha):
A Novel CML Therapy

Simon D. Scott, Ph.D. Gray Laboratory Radiation-Activated
Cancer Research Trust Gene Therapy Vectors
Northwood, Middlesex, for Cancer
U.K.

Ricai Han, Ph.D. Pennsylvania State DNA Vaccination
University Prevents and/or
College of Medicine Delays Carcinoma
Hershey, Pennsylvania Development of
Papillomavirus-
Induced Skin
Papillomas on
Rabbits


Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Pfizer Inc., Human Genome Sciences, Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation. Allovectin-7®, which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with kidney cancer and prostate cancer. Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine to prevent relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II testing. In collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, a naked DNA vaccine to treat metastatic melanoma is in Phase I/II testing.

This press release contains forward-looking statements that
blablabla

[er99ich]

Immer wieder auf und nieder,
seit 2 monaten bin ich investiert. Warum springt vical am Freitag um 25 % ???
Gibt es endlich news ??
Wo kann ich news in erfahrung bringen ???

MFG er99ich

[gholzbauer]

Am Donnerstag hat VICL gute Phase III/II-Daten ihrer Krebsbehandlungen präsentiert.

[puhvogel]

Also ich wär nicht auf den Gedanken gekommen, wegen der Nachrichten zu investieren:

" For Allovectin-7®, response data indicated that: 1) the response rate was higher in patients whose disease had not spread to multiple
internal organs, 2) patients who responded to treatment experienced longer survival than patients who did not respond, 3) the highest local
response rate was observed in tumors located in lymph nodes, and 4) the local response rate (significant shrinkage of treated tumors)
was higher than the systemic response rate (significant shrinkage of all tumors). "
Also die Punkte 1) 2) 4) sollten eine Selbstverständlichkeit sein, sonst könnten die ihre Versuche sofort abbrechen. Stammen die Daten aus dem aktuellen Phase 3 trial oder ist das eine Aufarbeitung der alten Phase 2 Daten?
Und weißt Du zufällig aus dem Kopf, was deren primären Endpunkt ist? "?-years-Survival"?
Ansonsten wäre eine virenfreie Portierung von DNA-Stücken sicher vorteilhaft, wenn sie funktioniert. BTW: Die FDA bastelt gerade an einem Kontroll- und Nachsorgeschema für Gentherapien.
Der Puhvogel

[gholzbauer]

Aus dem Yahoo-Board:

Malaria vaccine
by: Iseenothing (56/M/Stalag 13) 12/11/00 7:53 am
Msg: 3968 of 3971

I listened Vical`s presentation at the investor`s conference in Seattle and for the near term I believe the malaria vaccine will be our first major source of revenue. They really are exposing volunteers to malaria infected mosquitoes to test the vaccine`s effectiveness. If it effectively prevents their becoming infected, we go to market.
If it sounds unethical to do this sort of experiment on humans rest assured that the strain of malaria that is used is quickly and easily eradicated with standard treatment and that this is the standard procedure for testing the effectiveness of a malaria vaccine.
The market for this vaccine will not only include military personel, business travelers and tourists but, because of philanthropists like Bill Gates, there is a $2 billion fund available for teating the diseases of third world countries. Vical seems pretty confident that the vaccine will work just fine and will be a major revenue producer.

[gholzbauer]

Zu den Allovectin- und Leuvectin-Tests weiß ich nichts näheres.
Die Käufer am Freitag sollen v.a. Institutionelle gewesen sein.

[gholzbauer]

Wednesday December 13, 11:40 am Eastern Time
Press Release
SOURCE: Vical Incorporated
Vical Notes Merck Hope of Ultimate Success for HIV Vaccine
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL - news) announced that an investigative HIV vaccine program was highlighted Tuesday as a key research initiative for Merck & Co., Inc. (NYSE: MRK - news) at Merck`s annual business briefing. After noting the many failures to date and the challenges that lay ahead, Dr. Edward Scolnick, Merck`s head of research, told more than 300 analysts who attended the briefing at Merck`s New Jersey headquarters, ``My feeling and fond hope is that I, or my eventual successor, will some day be in front of you, telling you about the efficacy of this vaccine program.`` When questioned, Dr. Scolnick indicated that Vical`s naked DNA technology was part of Merck`s extensive investigational HIV vaccine program.

Vijay B. Samant, Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, said he was pleased by Dr. Scolnick`s comments. ``This novel vaccine approach may enable the development of vaccines for diseases where previous methods have failed,`` Samant said. ``We are particularly excited by the prospects for Merck`s investigational HIV vaccine program since it may offer new hope for both treating and preventing this terrible disease.``

Merck`s investigational HIV vaccine program includes development of vaccines based on Vical`s naked DNA vaccine technology to prevent and treat HIV infections. Merck is testing naked DNA vaccines for HIV in two human trials, one for uninfected volunteers and one for volunteers already infected with HIV and receiving highly active anti-retroviral therapy. The human testing began in December 1999. Merck also holds licenses to develop preventive and therapeutic vaccines for several other infectious disease vaccine targets.

Vaccines are generally recognized as the most cost-effective approach for infectious disease health care. However, the technical limitations of conventional vaccine approaches have constrained the development of effective vaccines for many diseases. Vical`s naked DNA vaccine technology may overcome two deficiencies of traditional preventive vaccine approaches, which are the inability to counteract the random changes in the strains of various infectious agents and the need for safe formulations that boost an antibody response or that cause sufficient killer T-cell responses, known as adjuvants. Potential vaccine products based on the Vical technology should be simpler to manufacture than vaccines that are made using cumbersome and labor-intensive techniques involving difficult tissue culture procedures and live viruses.

[gholzbauer]

Wednesday December 13, 11:40 am Eastern Time
Press Release
SOURCE: Vical Incorporated
Vical Announces Conference Call
SAN DIEGO, Dec. 13 /PRNewswire/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL - news) today announced that the company will conduct a conference call with invited analysts and institutional investors at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, December 14 to introduce newly appointed President and Chief Executive Officer Vijay B. Samant to the investment community.

The call is open on a listen-only basis to any interested parties. To listen to the call, please dial 1-706-645-9200 at least ten minutes before the scheduled starting time and ask for the Vical conference call. The call also will be available live via webcast at http://www.prnewswire.com/. A replay of the call will be available for 48 hours beginning about an hour after the call. To listen to the replay, please dial 1-706-645-9291 and enter conference identification number 999526. The archived webcast will be available for seven days at http://www.prnewswire.com/.

[er99ich]

hallo gholzbauer,
vielen dank auch mal, dass du immer so interessante news ins board stellst. das find ich prima.
vielen dank
er99ich

[gholzbauer]

Nichts zu danken.
Dankt Yahoo.
http://finance.yahoo.com/q?s=vicl&d=t

[gholzbauer]

Nix Neues bei VICL.
Die nächsten Tage will ich wieder rein.
Im Dezember hatte ich mich kurzfristig zum Verkauf entschlossen, weil ich einerseits den Kurzfrist-Gewinn mit VICL gut mit anderen Verlusten in 2000 verrechnen konnte, und andererseits kalte Füße angesichts der Nasdaq-Entwicklung bekommen hatte.
Weiß jemand, ob VICL in letzter Zeit zufällig in irgendeinem Blättchen erwähnt wurde, Global Biotech Inv., o.ä.?
Die 7-Tage-Frist für den bei prnewswire abgespeicherten conference call habe ich leider verpennt, aber vielleicht finde ich noch was im Yahoo-Board ...

[puhvogel]

@gholz: Da Du gerne Gentherapie-Aktien hälst.
Es gibt wohl ein Mediengewitter (ich habe es bisher versucht es ein wenig anzudeuten), bzw dies erklärt wohl die schwache Performance einiger Gentherapy-Werte in letzter Zeit.

Transgene downgrade casts doubt on biotech sector-analysts
By Sarah Knight
FRANKFURT, Feb 19 (Reuters) - Following a harsh downgrade on leading French gene therapy company, Transgene SA , analysts are warning investors to avoid the sector at current prices, as products are slow to materialise.
Transgene shares plunged 12 percent to 28 euros on Monday, after Credit Suisse First Boston set a price target of 10 euros -- 69 percent below Friday`s closing share price, and cut its rating on Transgene to ``sell`` from ``hold``.
Analysts Genghis Lloyd-Harris and Jonathan Senior said that, while Transgene had particular problems, including being short of cash, the gene therapy sector as a whole was unattractive. Companies such as Targeted Genetics (NasdaqNM:TGEN - news), Oxford BioMedica (quote from Yahoo! UK & Ireland: OXB.L), Vical (NasdaqNM:VICL - news) and Cell Genesys (NasdaqNM:CEGE - news), ``have found it difficult to get products through the clinic and on to the market`` CSFB analysts said.

Other companies with gene therapy programmes include Infogenie , and GenVec (Nasdaq:GNV - news).
GENE THERAPY SLOW IN COMING
Gene therapy, the process by which DNA sequences, encoding specific genes, are delivered to the cells to treat or cure disease, has faced severe technical challenges. In 1999, a teenager died in a gene therapy trial, which raised serious questions about the technology. ``We are not investing in gene therapy companies,`` said Sebastian Virchow, at DWS in Frankfurt, who helps manage a 2.4 billion euro biotech fund.
``The progress they make in clinical development is slow, and there is the safety concern,`` he added. Virchow said DWS favours biotechs which are already on the market with products, such as Amgen (NasdaqNM:AMGN - news), Genentech (NYSE: DNA - news), or others which are expected to have product launches including Tanox , Corixa (NasdaqNM:CRXA - news), Praecis (NasdaqNM:PRCS - news) and Enzon (NasdaqNM:ENZN - news). Still, he agrees that in the long run, gene therapy might offer one of the most promising approaches to treating acquired or inherited disease, for which there are currently no cures.
``It is definitely a sector which is controversial,`` said Michael Sjostrom, who manages Pictet`s $1.5 billion biotech fund. ``At the same time we are starting to see some approaches which have validity and may have tangible results in the next few years.``

Sjostrum holds stock in Avigen (NasdaqNM:AVGN - news) and TKT Pharmaceuticals. Avigen delivers gene therapy with an in-vivo approach, where genes are injected into the body, while TKT uses the ex-vivo method, by which cells are extracted from the patient, then genetically modified and reinfused. Both are leaders in their field, Sjostrum said.
The German Neuer Markt biotech index fell 1.4 percent on Monday, bringing it to a 52 percent fall in the last 11 months. The U.S. market was closed on Monday for a holiday but on Friday, the Nasdaq biotech index (^NBI - news) fell three percent, down almost 40 percent since highs set last March.

So so, die DWS-Fritzen halten also CRXA für einen winner.

[gholzbauer]

Danke, ich habe das gesunkene Vertrauen in die Gentherapie in den letzten Monaten schon bemerkt.
Vical habe ich seit Dezember noch nicht wieder zurückgekauft, ich warte auf Kurse um 12-13$.
MfG

[flatus]

in letzter Zei hagelt es nur so gut news. Gestern nach US-Börsenschluss die Erteilung eines Kernpatentes mit erweiterter Anwedungsweise. Zwar nicht so gut Mologen, aber nah an der Zulassung. Außerdem HIV-Vaccine Phantasie.

Ergebnisse der Vaccine imTiermodell vorgestellt im Mai,
ebenso zwischenbericht zur MM-Vaccine Allovectin-7. Also weiter positiver news-flow

flatus
------------------------------
Tuesday April 10, 4:15 pm Eastern Time

Press Release

SOURCE: Vical Incorporated

Vical Announces Issuance of Key Naked DNA Vaccine Patent

SAN DIEGO, April 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL - news) today announced the
issuance of U.S. Patent No. 6,214,804, which expands the company`s broad ownership of naked DNA gene
delivery technologies by including administration of naked DNA into any tissue for the purpose of inducing an
immune response.

This patent effectively renews and reinforces Vical`s previously issued patent covering naked DNA injection
into muscle or skin to stimulate an immune response systemically. Moreover, it generically covers both
systemic and local administration of naked DNA vaccines. Local administration may alter the characteristics of
the body`s immune response, providing potentially improved immunity against certain diseases. For example,
naked DNA vaccination via pulmonary (lung) or intranasal delivery may prove beneficial for certain diseases
which have so far proven unresponsive to conventional vaccination. Vical has more than 400 issued or pending
patents worldwide.

Vical`s novel method for delivering genes into cells in the body is different from current medicine because it
delivers DNA to the cell through a ring of genetic material called a plasmid, or ``naked DNA.`` Naked DNA is
different from other gene delivery techniques because it doesn`t use viruses to deliver the genetic material -- the
genes are ``virus-bare`` or ``naked.`` Because naked DNA delivery does not involve administration of
potentially infectious viruses, it avoids any negative side effects typically associated with viral-based delivery
methods for vaccines or therapeutics.

Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, Vijay B. Samant, said, ``We are pleased to expand our patent
estate with this key addition. Naked DNA is able to cause vital stimulation of the human immune system and we
are delighted by the possibilities this patent opens to us in our search for new and better treatments for
mankind.``

Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product
candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product
candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and
metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Pfizer Inc., Aventis
Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation.
Allovectin-7®, which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells,
is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in
patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune
response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with kidney cancer and prostate cancer. Vaxid, a
naked DNA vaccine to prevent relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II testing. In collaboration with the
National Cancer Institute, a naked DNA vaccine to treat metastatic melanoma is in Phase I/II testing. If you are
interested in any of Vical`s clinical trials, please see our website at www.vical.com, or contact Tammy Boyce
by phone at 858/646-1120 or by e-mail at [e-mail].

[gholzbauer]

Meine am 20.2. angegebene Kaufkurszone wurde mit einem Tief von 8,53$ locker unterboten.
Dummerweise habe ich die Gelegenheit nicht genutzt, so daß ich noch immer ohne ein Stück Vical dastehe.
Da sie gestern von 14 $ Tageshoch schon deutlich zurückgekommen sind, erwarte ich eine weitere kurzfristige Konsolidierung (falls keine kurstreibenden Nachrichten kommen).
Leider sind Vical wie viele andere Biotechs zu einer Art Optionsschein auf den Nasdaq verkommen, so daß ich die Kauf-und Verkaufsentscheidungen von der allg. Nasdaq-Stimmung abhängig machen werde.
In Börsenzeiten wie diesen mutiert man zum Kurzfrist-Zocker. ;(

Ein paar hundert Vical sollte ich mir vielleicht aber für den großen Durchbruch der naked-DNA-Technologie einbunkern.
Falls er kommt.



Aus dem Yahoo-Message-Board zu VICL:


Robertson Stephens Reiterates Buy
by: savas_1 03/28/01 12:06 pm EST
Msg: 4599 of 4711

Vical Incorporated
(NASDAQ:VICL) $10.31
Buy
Jay Silverman, Biopharmaceuticals
"At the Annual Conference of the American Association of Cancer Research,
an investigator presented positive results from a Phase I/II trial of
Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine custom-made for each patient with low-grade
Non-Hodgkins B-cell Lymphoma," said Silverman. "This is the first time
Vical has presented proven safety/immunogenicity of a naked DNA vaccine in
cancer patients. Results indicate that Vaxid met its endpoints, showing
positive toxicity, immunogenicity, and feasibility. In our view, these
results point toward a compelling proof of principle -- that a naked DNA
cancer vaccine specifically made based on each patient`s B cell idiotype
could work. We view this as a significant validation of VICL`s unique
approach for oncology therapeutics. While further development plans for
Vaxid remain undisclosed, there should be continued focus on Vical`s late
stage pipeline in 2001: Phase II results for Allovectin-7 in melanoma at
American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO); Phase II results for
Leuvectin in kidney cancer in 2H:01; and Phase II data for the malaria
vaccine also in 2H:01. We reiterate our Buy rating."

[gholzbauer]

14,90 $ in NY und >18 E in Dtl. ???

[gholzbauer]

Immer noch ohne VICL, aber besser so, glaube ich.
bid/ask 9$/16$, nach 16,6$ Schlußkurs.

Thursday April 19, 5:38 pm Eastern Time
Press Release
SOURCE: Vical Incorporated
Vical Updates Leuvectin(TM) Kidney Cancer Program
SAN DIEGO, April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Vical Incorporated (Nasdaq: VICL - news) today announced that the company is discontinuing the current Phase II clinical trial with Leuvectin(TM) for patients with metastatic kidney cancer and planning a new Phase II clinical trial using a new dose and dosing regimen.
ADVERTISEMENT



In the current Phase II kidney cancer trial with Leuvectin(TM), the study protocol required an interim analysis of data from the first 37 patients. Based on that analysis, the company determined that efficacy failed to meet the level needed to continue the study. The efficacy also appears to be lower than that observed in prior kidney cancer trials with Leuvectin(TM). The Leuvectin(TM) used in the current trial was formulated with a different process than the Leuvectin(TM) used in earlier trials. Comparative analysis suggests that expression of interleukin-2 (IL-2) for the product used in the current trial may be below historical levels. The new trial would use high-dose Leuvectin(TM) formulated with an optimized process.

``Clinical testing is intended to identify such issues,`` said Vijay B. Samant, Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, ``and our internal systems worked as designed in doing so. The safety profile for Leuvectin(TM) has been excellent compared with systemic IL-2 therapy and efficacy results from our earlier trials were promising.`` The safety database for Leuvectin(TM) now includes more than 235 patients, with less than 3 percent requiring even brief hospitalization for drug-related adverse events. The drug-related hospitalization rate for systemic IL-2 therapy is significantly higher. ``We are confident,`` added Mr. Samant, ``that continued development of Leuvectin(TM) can lead to a better treatment option for patients with metastatic kidney cancer.``

Leuvectin(TM)

The active ingredient in Leuvectin(TM), a DNA-based product candidate, is a gene encoding IL-2, a naturally occurring protein that stimulates the immune system. Administration occurs by direct injection into a tumor, leading to uptake by the tumor cells and subsequent expression of the IL-2 protein. The company expects that local expression of IL-2 by cancer cells may stimulate the patient`s immune system to attack and destroy the tumor cells.

Recombinant IL-2 protein is an FDA-approved anti-cancer agent for the treatment of advanced kidney cancer. When given systemically, it is frequently associated with serious side effects. Because Leuvectin(TM) delivers IL-2 locally within the tumor, it may provide similar benefits with fewer side effects than the systemic protein therapy.

[gholzbauer]

Kurs hält sich bei gut 18E. Vielleicht gibt es doch keinen stärkeren Rücksetzer heute?

[gholzbauer]

Ich rechne aber doch mit einem stärkeren Rückgang bei VICL heute in NY.
Diese Meldung ist zwar nicht "furchtbar schlecht", sondern normale Vorgehensweise in den klin. Testphasen, aber am Markt wird das heute vermutlich nicht gut ankommen.
Wenn ich VICL hätte, würde ich bei aktuell 17,50 (Frankfurt) bis 18,10 (München) sicherheitshalber rausgehen.


MfG

[gholzbauer]

Frankfurt jetzt 15,50/16,00 E.
NY vorbörslich 15,50 $ Brief.

[gholzbauer]

NY 14$.

[gholzbauer]

12,5/13$

[gholzbauer]

Noch ein downgrade:
Vical Inc VICL Goldman Sachs from Mkt Outperform
to Mkt Perform

[flatus]

die Adhoc-Meldung überrascht mich ehrlich gesagt nicht sehr. Der neue CEO kündigte auf einem der letzten Kongresse so etwas ähnliches schon an. Die Ergebnisse zu Leuvectin waren von Anfang an nie so uberzeugend, wie die von Allovectin.

eine rechtzeitige Kurskorrektur (höhere Dosierung) finde ich daher vernünftig. An der Perpskektive ändert dies m.E. nichts.

Werde bei Kursen um 11 eur nachkaufen (wobei ich nicht hoffe, daß diese erreicht werden. Aber in diesem Sektor ist ja alles möglich (siehe heute Actelion -50% wg. schlechten Studienergebnissen zu akutem Herzversagen und Tezosentan)

Gruss

flatus

[antepli]

Hallo Mädels,
habe Eure Diskussion über VICL heute gelesen!
Was ´war denn die Ursache für die hohen Kursabschläge???
Habt Ihr darüber hinaus Info`s was genau Vicl macht und wann Produkte und wieviel auf den Markt gebracht werden!!!

[buko]

Scheisse,
gestern gekauft,übrigens auf Grund einer Empfehlung von
"Finanzen" und heute schon 20 % verloren.
Zur Zeit kann man durch Nixtun das meiste Geld verdienen.
Leider.
Buko

[gholzbauer]

Hallo antepli,
steht doch alles im Thread bzw. das kann man nicht wissen.

buko,
schade, daß Du offenbar meine Verkaufsempfehlung nicht rechtzeitig befolgen konntest.

Bei (spätestens) ca. 10 $ sehe ich jedenfalls wieder Kaufkurse, also (langfristig) optimistisch bleiben!


MfG

[er99ich]

gibts noch jemanden der in cical investiert ist ??
wie seht ihr die Zukunft ??
PS: Bei 12 $ findet sich immer ein Käufer !

Vical and Merial Extend Options in DNA Vaccine Collaboration

SAN DIEGO, July 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) announced today that Merial, a joint venture between Merck and Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) and Aventis S.A. (NYSE:AVE), has extended options under a 1995 agreement to develop and commercialize vaccines for animal health applications using Vical`s patented naked DNA technology. Merial previously exercised selected options to acquire exclusive licenses for preventive naked DNA vaccines against several infectious disease targets in domesticated animals.

In exchange for payment to Vical of $1.0 million, Merial will receive a renewable one-year extension of its options against additional infectious disease targets in domesticated animals. If Merial renews its option extension or exercises additional options, Vical would receive further payments. Vical would also receive royalty payments on sales of any vaccines covered by the agreement.

"We are pleased to extend our relationship with Merial," said Vijay B. Samant, Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, "and we look forward to their continued progress in the development of animal health vaccines. As the leading company in this sizeable market, Merial is well-positioned to succeed in commercializing a new generation of vaccines based on our patented naked DNA technology."


Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Pfizer Inc., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with prostate cancer. Vaxid, a naked DNA vaccine to prevent relapse of B-cell lymphoma, is in Phase I/II testing. In collaboration with the National Cancer Institute, a naked DNA vaccine to treat metastatic melanoma is in Phase I/II testing. If you are interested in any of Vical`s clinical trials, please see our website at www.vical.com, or contact Tammy Boyce by phone at 858/646-1120 or by e-mail at [e-mail].

Merial is the world`s leading animal healthcare company dedicated to the research, development, manufacture and delivery of innovative pharmaceuticals and vaccines for use by veterinarians, farmers and pet owners to improve the health, well-being and performance of all animal species. The company is also market leader in the development and production of poultry breeding stock. Merial was founded in 1997 through the merger of the animal health and poultry genetics businesses of Merck and Co., Inc. and Aventis S.A.


This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Forward-looking statements include statements about the company`s focus, collaborative partners, product candidates, developmental status and financial performance. Risks and uncertainties include whether any product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials, the timing of clinical trials, whether Vical or its collaborative partners will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, whether revenues and expenditures will match expectations, and additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

For further information, please contact: Alan R. Engbring, Director, Investor Relations of Vical Incorporated, 858-646-1127.

[gholzbauer]

Hallo er99ich,
ich habe zur Zeit keine. Würde sie gerne etwas billiger (ca. 10$) kaufen, um auf einen mittelfristigen Anstieg auf 15-20$ zu spekulieren.

[er99ich]

hallo gholzbauer
das glück gehört denen, die auf gute "kurse" warten können. ich fahre jetzt erst mal für 4 wochen in urlaub. mal sehn was in einem jahr mit vical los ist. die großen bojs sind ja noch dabei und das stimmt mich positiv.
also viel erfolg.

[gholzbauer]

Hallo,
ich überlege nach einem ganzen Jahr der Zurückhaltung wieder in Vical zu gehen. Falls demnächst ein grundloser Sell-off kommen sollte (der Chart sieht eher nicht gut aus), werde ich zuschlagen. Irgendwann sollten Neuigkeiten zur Malaria-Impfung kommen.
Hat jemand eine Ahnung, was die Biotechbriefe (z.B. GBI) in letzter Zeit über VICL schreiben?

[er99ich]

hallo
vor zwei wochen hat fire. fox einen interessanten beitrag reingestellt.
http://www.biotech-world.de/archiv/analysen/15112001_vical.p…

ich persönlich werde nochmal bei 9.50 nachkaufen.
mfg er99ich

[er99ich]

@gholzbauer
ich glaube, da muss ich noch lange auf meine 9,50 warten.
im vergleich zu den anderen bios hält sich vical in den letzten 4 wochen, seit es gen süden geht, wirklich gut.
mfg er99ich

[er99ich]

auf die plätze vical los !
mal sehn wie sich die news morgen auf den kurs auswirken. die erfolge, die vical in seinen tests mit "nackten genen", bei affen (mit aids) erzielt haben, stimmt mich positiv für diese aktie.
dies jedoch wirklich zu beurteilen überlasse ich den fachleuten oder der börse. wir werden sehen.
mfr er99ich

powered by
New Research Includes Use of Vical`s `Naked DNA` Technology for HIV Vaccine
18 Jan 2002, 4:40pm ET E-mail or Print this story
- - - - - /FROM PR NEWSWIRE LOS ANGELES 213-626-5500/ [STK] VICL CYTR [IN] HEA MTC [SU] TO BUSINESS, MEDICAL AND SCIENCE EDITORS: New Research Includes Use of Vical`s `Naked DNA` Technology for HIV Vaccine SAN DIEGO, Jan. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Research results published in the scientific journal Nature describe the use of the Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) "naked DNA" technology in the ongoing efforts to develop a vaccine to combat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The report in Nature described studies conducted by Merck & Co., Inc. including a study in which a vaccine regimen employing Vical`s patented naked DNA non-viral gene delivery technology was used in a prime-boost regimen with naked DNA plus adjuvant to prime and Merck`s non-replicating adenoviral vector to boost. This vaccine combination was shown to provide potent cellular immune responses to a hybrid form of HIV that can replicate and cause clinical disease in monkeys. "This early stage animal research is part of ongoing studies to determine the role for Vical`s naked DNA technology used in combination with an adenoviral vector in developing vaccines for HIV," said Vical President and Chief Executive Officer Vijay Samant. "Developing a vaccine against a complex target such as HIV is a challenging undertaking, but we believe Merck`s continued research efforts to expand the utility of this technology is well-founded." Merck is using naked DNA technology as a component of its efforts to develop vaccines to prevent and treat HIV infections. Naked DNA technology is Vical`s patented method of delivering genetic material into cells in the body without using a virus. Prime-boost is an approach that seeks to optimize the immune response by using two different forms of vaccination in sequence. The prime-boost regimen used by Merck, combines a naked DNA prime vaccine with an adenoviral vector boost vaccine. In Merck`s studies the naked DNA prime vaccine was formulated in a solution containing CRL-1005, a non-ionic block copolymer adjuvant. Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation. Vical has exclusively licensed worldwide rights from CytRx Corporation (NASDAQ:CYTR) to use CRL-1005 and other poloxamers to enhance viral or non-viral delivery of polynucleotides (such as DNA and RNA) in all preventive and therapeutic human and animal health applications, except for HIV and three other infectious disease targets already licensed to Merck and prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA). In addition, Vical licensed rights to use CytRx`s poloxamer technology to enhance the delivery of proteins in prime-boost applications that involve the use of polynucleotides. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with prostate cancer. If you are interested in any of Vical`s clinical trials, please see our website at www.vical.com, or contact Cherie Smith by phone at 858-646-1177 or by e-mail at [e-mail]. This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Forward-looking statements include statements about the role Vical`s naked DNA technology may play in a vaccine against HIV being developed by Merck or in the development of vaccines against other infectious diseases, the potential benefits of using Vical`s technology in developing vaccines and other products, as well as the company`s focus, collaborative partners, product candidates, and developmental status. Risks and uncertainties include whether use of Vical`s technology in vaccines will provide protective or therapeutic immune responses to HIV or other infectious diseases, whether any product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials, the timing of clinical trials, whether Vical or its collaborative partners will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, the dependence of the company on its collaborative partners, and additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements. For further information, please contact: Alan R. Engbring, Director, Investor Relations of Vical Incorporated, [phone]. MAKE YOUR OPINION COUNT - Click Here http://tbutton.prnewswire.com/prn/11690X26296166 SOURCE Vical Incorporated -0- 01/18/2002 /CONTACT: Alan R. Engbring, Director, Investor Relations of Vical Incorporated, [phone]/ /Web site: http://www.vical.com/

[gholzbauer]

Gefunden im Yahoo-Board:

AG Edwards report
by: rolflindy (65/M/Minneapolis)
Long-Term Sentiment: Hold 01/08/02 08:47 am
Msg: 7070 of 7228

The Edwards report of Dec 18 gives VICL a speculative Strong Buy. Purchase of the stock is recommended only if you buy as part of a `basket` of their other strong buys including AVGN, GNVC, and ONXX. The report suggests a present value of $14/share and a target of $17.
The retreat to 200 patients from 280 in the phase 3 trial is considered a negative.

--------------

Cashbestand von VICL z.Z. 7$, was einen Boden für den Kurs darstellen sollte. Bei einem Kurs unter 9$ wird das Chance-Risiko-Verhältnis wieder sehr gut. Werde also noch etwas warten mit Einstieg.

[gholzbauer]

Liege auf der Lauer. Die 8.81$ heute wären vielleicht schon nicht schlecht gewesen.

[gholzbauer]

Weiß jemand, was bei VICL los ist?
Stehen irgendwelche Nachrichten an?
Da hat es einer am Freitag ziemlich eilig gehabt zu verkaufen.
Smells fishy.

[puhvogel]

Solche Art Kursbewegugen kenn ich bei VPHM oder AMLN in beide Richtungen, aber Vical ist nicht so "sprunghaft".
Ich würde mich auch unwohl fühlen, auch wenn eigentlich zu überstürzt verkauft wurde.
Ansonsten steht in deren Q4:
"We expect to have audited data in the second half of 2002 from our Phase III registration trial with Allovectin-7® in metastatic melanoma"

Vor ein zwei Wochen hatte ich Nachrichten einer anderen Firma gelesen, bei denen ich mir so dachte: das macht die Erfolgsaussichten für Vical nicht gerade wahrscheinlicher.
Mein Gedächtnis streikt aktuell, worum es dabei ging, sorry

[flatus]

@gholzbauer:

verfolge VICL seit langem sehr aufmerksam. Denke nicht, daß die Kursbewegung Freitag gegen Handelsschluß fundamentale Gründe hatte. m.E. Auslösung von SL-Limits, da 52 w low unterschritten wurde. Umsatz spricht auch nicht für insider-wissen. Und so überlege auch ich, ob man nachkaufen sollte.
Bis heute ist die Wirksamkeit von gentherapeutischen Ansätzen vor allem durch das Fehlen wirklich durchgreifender Erfolge in Frage gestellt. Andere Methoden haben in kürzerer Zeit für mehr Aufsehen gesorgt (z.B. Antissense oder small-molecule drugs, die in die Signalvermittlung eingreifen können). Trotzdem bin ich ziemlich sicher, daß der Erfolg kommen wird. Sicherheitsaspekte sind bei diesem neuen Ansatz wegen der grötenteils fehlenden Möglichkeit, regulierend einzugreifen, wichtiger als alles andere. Und damit sind Vical und Mologen nun mal die einzigen, die in höchstem Maße den Anforderungen entsprechen, was natürlich auch die Gefahr einer zu gering ausgeprägten Wirkung mit einschließt. Bislang halte ich die Studie jedoch noch für recht hoffnungsvoll.

Gruss

flatus

[tommihe]

ist was im Busch bei Vical?
oder nur technische Erholung?
siehe bid Orders:



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[er99ich]

heute habe ich news gefunden / Quote.com. wie denkt ihr darüber ? die news sind zwar nicht sensantionell, aber vicals gentherapie macht wohl fortschritte. bei affen sind die studien erfolgreich. bei menschen ebenso, wenn die dosis stimmt. aber was heißt das schon, wenn bei ca. 50% eine Blutbildveränderung festgestellt wird und was machen eigentlich die t - zellen. gibt es unter euch einen fachmann der davon etwas versteht??
mfg er99ich



NEW YORK, Feb 26 (Reuters) - Early human data suggest two HIV vaccines being developed by Merck & Co. may help control the virus that causes AIDS, yet it remains to be seen whether they can prevent infection, researchers said on Tuesday.


If later-stage trials indeed prove the vaccines can tame the deadly virus, researchers said they might someday be used to improve treatment for HIV-infected people who are already taking cocktails of drugs to ward off AIDS symptoms.

Merck (NYSE:MRK) researchers, who have been working for 15 years to develop HIV vaccines, unveiled the encouraging preliminary human data at the annual meeting of the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections being held in Seattle.

The results come on the heels of previously published animal studies of similar Merck vaccines, which effectively controlled a virus that causes AIDS-like symptoms in monkeys, but did not prevent infection of monkeys with the virus.

In the human trials described today, HIV-negative volunteers were given vaccines containing a gene that codes for production of the so-called gag protein found inside HIV. The gene is unattached to anything else, and hence "naked."

Researchers said the protein on its own poses no apparent health or safety risk, and neither vaccine has caused significant side effects.

The aim of the Phase I trials was to verify safety of the two vaccines and get an initial idea whether they stimulate the immune system, particularly white blood cells called T cells that are responsible for killing bacteria and viruses.

VACCINE ARMED WITH HIV PROTEIN

The first vaccine was comprised of pure DNA that instructs for production of the HIV gag gene. It was tested among 108 volunteers, divided into groups receiving either a 1 milligram or 5 milligram dose of the vaccine, or a placebo vaccine.

But the strongest immune responses were seen among dozens of volunteers given varying doses of a different Merck vaccine comprised of the gag gene crammed into an adenovirus, or common cold virus.

The cold virus -- modified beforehand so it could not reproduce in the recipient -- was used as a vector, or delivery vehicle, for the gag gene.

"The adenovirus-vector vaccine has been by far the vaccine we are most excited about because it appeared the most promising in our earlier monkey studies," Dr. John Shiver, Merck`s senior director of vaccine research, said in an interview.

Shiver said volunteers given the naked gag gene vaccine were injected four times within a 30-week period. Only about 2 percent getting the 1 milligram dose showed a positive immune response 12 weeks into the trial, although about 20 percent had significant T-cell responses after 30 weeks.

Among those getting the 5 milligram dose of the naked DNA vaccine, up to 42 percent showed positive immune responses at 30 weeks, as judged by a laboratory test that measures how many T cells in a given blood sample are actively producing the antiviral chemical gamma-interferon.

"It appears the higher the dose of the DNA vaccine, the better the immune response," said Shiver, who noted that Merck licensed the naked DNA vaccine method from San Diego biotech firm Vical Inc. (NASDAQ:VICL)

COLD VIRUS AS DELIVERY VEHICLE

But Shiver said results were more impressive for patients receiving the adenovirus vector vaccine. Six of the nine volunteers getting the lowest dose of the vaccine, or 67 percent, showed T-cell responses after a series of inoculations given over both an eight-week period and a 30-week period.

About half the subjects receiving various doses of the adenovirus vector vaccine showed positive T-cell responses.

"That may be related to the fact that half of all North Americans have natural antibodies against the type of adenovirus our vaccine uses," Shiver said, meaning their immune systems were naturally inclined to attack the cold virus and could be neutralizing the vaccine in the process.

With monkeys, neither the naked DNA vaccine nor the adenovirus-vector vaccine was able to prevent infection with an HIV-like virus. But combined use of the vaccines stimulated dramatic immune responses in monkeys who were later infected with the virus, enabling long-term suppression of the virus and AIDS-like symptoms.

For that reason, Shiver said most of the humans already given the naked DNA vaccine will now also be given Merck`s adenovirus vector vaccine, to see if their immune responses can also be further stimulated.

He said results of volunteers taking both vaccines would be available at an unknown future date, after which Merck could proceed with larger and later-stage trials better geared to determine effectiveness of the vaccines.

"We hope to determine if our vaccines can either protect against infection with the virus or control the virus," Shiver said, noting that no vaccine yet exists to prevent HIV infection although many firms are racing to develop one.

In the meantime, Shiver said controlling the virus in already infected people might not only moderate or prevent AIDS symptoms, but could slash bloodstream HIV levels so greatly that patients will be unlikely to infect others.

An estimated 40 million people globally, most of them in Africa, are believed infected with HIV. A vaccine to prevent infection is considered the only practical, and affordable, way of controlling the ever-widening epidemic.

[puhvogel]

But the strongest immune responses were seen among dozens of volunteers given varying doses of a different Merck vaccine comprised of the gag gene crammed into an adenovirus, or common cold virus.

Das ist nicht gerade eine Werbung für die naked-DNA Therapy. Außerdem hat Merck die Technologie von vical lizensiert, das ist also jetzt Mercks Produkt.

Btw: Der häufigste Erkältungsvirus ist im übrigen der Rhinovirus, und das ist bestimmt kein Adenovirus.

[er99ich]

bei vical gibts personelle veränderungen im vorstand.

/FROM PR NEWSWIRE LOS ANGELES 213-626-5500/ [STK] VICL [IN] MTC BIO [SU] PER TO BUSINESS EDITOR:
Robert C. Merton Joins Vical Board of Directors


SAN DIEGO, March 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) announced today the appointment of Robert C. Merton, Ph.D., to the Company`s Board of Directors. Dr. Merton, 57, has been the John and Natty McArthur University Professor at the Harvard University Graduate School of Business since 1998.

Dr. Merton received the Alfred Nobel Memorial Prize in the Economic Sciences in 1997 for a new method to determine the value of derivatives. He along with Myron Scholes and the late Fischer Black invented the Black-Scholes option pricing model that forever altered the world of finance. Prior to joining the faculty of Harvard in 1988, he served on the finance faculty of MIT`s Sloan School of Management for eighteen years. Dr. Merton is past President of the American Finance Association and a member of the National Academy of Sciences.

Vijay B. Samant, President and CEO of Vical, said, "We are honored that Dr. Merton has accepted the invitation to join our Board of Directors and chair our Audit Committee. A man of exceptional intellect, he brings to our Board a breadth and depth of knowledge in his chosen fields matched by few in either academia or industry. Equally important, despite numerous appointments and advisory positions, Dr. Merton has committed to serve as an active member of our Board. We are delighted to welcome Dr. Merton as a Board member at this critical phase in our company`s growth."

Dr. Merton has also been recognized for his achievements in translating theory into practice. In 1993, he received the first Financial Engineer of the Year Award from the International Association of Financial Engineers. Derivatives Strategy magazine named him to its Derivatives Hall of Fame in 1998. From 1988-1992, Dr. Merton served as a senior advisor to the Office of the Chairman, Salomon Inc. In 1993, he co-founded Long-Term Capital Management and served as a principal until 1999. From 1999-2001, he was a senior advisor to J.P. Morgan & Co. Incorporated. Dr. Merton recently co-founded a new financial-services firm, Hancock, Mendoza, Dachille & Merton, Ltd., which will take an integrated, functional approach to solving strategic problems for corporations and sovereigns and implement those solutions by applying modern finance technology already proven in capital markets applications.

Dr. Merton holds a B.S. in Engineering Mathematics from Columbia University, a M.S. in Applied Mathematics from the California Institute of Technology, and a Ph.D. in Economics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He also holds honorary degrees from the University of Chicago, the Hautes Etudes Commerciales, Paris, the University of Lausanne, University Paris-Dauphine, and National Sun Yat-sen University. His detailed biography is available on the Harvard web site at http://www.people.hbs.edu/rmerton/.

The company also announced today the resignation of Philip M. Young from Vical`s Board of Directors due to increasing demands on his time. Mr. Young, General Partner with U.S. Venture Partners, had served on the Vical Board since 1990. His term was scheduled to expire at the Annual Meeting of Stockholders on May 24, 2002. Mr. Samant said, "Phil has been dedicated to guiding Vical`s growth and development over the past 12 years. We thank him for his many contributions and wish him continued success both professionally and personally."

Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with prostate cancer. If you are interested in any of Vical`s clinical trials, please see our website at www.vical.com, or contact Cherie Smith by phone at 858-646-1177 or by e-mail at [e-mail].

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements, including whether any product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials, the timing of clinical trials, whether Vical will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, and additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those projected. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

[Grignard]

@er99ich

Die T-Killerzellen sind soetwas wie die Polizei auf Verbrecherjagd. Sie zerstören alle nicht körpereigenen Zellen, bzw. die die sie für solche hält.

Gruß Grignard

[er99ich]

anbei die aktuellen news von heute.
vical will seine forschung erweitern, patente verkaufen und weitere forschungstechnologien erwerben. auch sind sie auf der suche nach partnern usw..
der kurs reagiert erstmal negativ. was ich davon halten soll, weiß ich noch nicht. wer hat eine meinung zur zukunft von vical??
mfg er99ich
/FROM PR NEWSWIRE LOS ANGELES 213-626-5500/ [STK] VICL [IN] BIO MTC HEA [SU] TO BUSINESS AND MEDICAL EDITORS:

[Advertisement]

Vical to Present Update on Product Development Strategy

BOSTON, March 12 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) announced that Vijay B. Samant, Vical`s Chief Executive Officer, will present today a strategic overview of the company`s plans to significantly expand its product development efforts. The presentation is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time at SG Cowen Securities Corp.`s 22nd Annual Health Care Conference in Boston.

"Vical is widely known for its naked DNA gene delivery technology, and for its independent cancer immunotherapy programs," said Mr. Samant. "In addition to these programs, we are also excited about the broad range of product development opportunities we are exploring. Our core technology has advanced considerably in recent years, and we have gained access to additional enhancing technologies through collaborative agreements. We have reached the point in our product development process where we can share some of the excitement by providing guidance on our strategic direction."

The company has identified four franchise areas of research that it believes offer the greatest potential for in-house product development:

-- Cancer immunotherapies to deliver cytokines for which there is

compelling preclinical efficacy data.

-- Cancer vaccines for melanoma or other solid tumors, which complement

Vical`s existing programs and core expertise.

-- Vaccines for use in high-risk populations for infectious disease

targets for which there are significant U.S. needs and no existing

vaccines.

-- Vaccines for general pediatric or adult populations for infectious

disease applications for which a challenge model or accepted

surrogate marker are available.

The company plans to select two targets from these areas in 2002 to advance into preclinical development. For opportunities outside these four key franchise areas, the company plans to continue leveraging its patented technology through licensing and collaborations. The company intends to enter into two out-licensing or collaboration agreements in 2002. In addition, the company plans to use its expertise, infrastructure, and financial strength to explore in-licensing or acquisition opportunities for late-stage product candidates.

These product development initiatives are intended to leverage Vical`s technology platform, including the poloxamers that the company recently licensed from CytRx and other technologies. Using the full spectrum of these available tools, Vical scientists are finding it possible to significantly improve expression levels in therapeutic protein applications and immune responses in vaccine applications.

Clinical Development Programs

The current status of Vical`s independent development efforts, which are focused on cancer immunotherapies, is as follows:

-- Allovectin-7(R) -- Phase III data from the company`s registration

trial for metastatic melanoma is expected to be fully reviewed and

adjudicated in the second half of 2002.

-- Allovectin-7(R) -- A high-dose Phase II trial for metastatic melanoma

is recruiting well, with more than 50 patients enrolled, and

treatment is now occurring at the full 2 mg. dose.

-- Leuvectin(TM) -- Future development plans will be announced in the

second half of 2002.

Malaria

The company`s malaria vaccine program, being developed in conjunction with the U.S. Navy and USAID, also continues to progress. In particular, Vical scientists, in cooperation with the U.S. government, are looking to apply several new enhancing technologies to develop a preventive malaria vaccine that uses Vical`s DNA technologies to provide 6 to 9 months` protection. The initial indication for use will be aimed at the travel and military markets, for which there are currently licensed medications that have limitations such as drug-resistance, side effects and duration of treatment both before and after travel.

"Given the data from the human challenge model in which irradiated sporozoites have been shown to provide short-term protection, we have a scientifically proven and biologically feasible clinical endpoint that we`re confident we can mimic," said Vical`s Chief Scientific Officer, Dr. David C. Kaslow. "In addition to being a worthwhile and achievable goal in itself, figuring out how to use DNA vaccines to provide protection against malaria, a major infectious disease problem worldwide, is an important step towards developing vaccines for a number of other indications."

HIV

Our partner programs also continue to make significant progress. Merck & Co., Inc., in its continuing efforts to develop a vaccine to combat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), reported research results in January from a study in monkeys (Nature, 415: 331-335, 2002). Initial human data were presented in February at the 9th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections. Both studies included Vical`s patented naked DNA technology as a key component of Merck`s HIV vaccine program.

"We at Vical are enthusiastic about the product development opportunities before us," Mr. Samant said. "We are well prepared for the challenges ahead. We already have made significant improvements to our core competencies, and we look forward to further expansion of our capabilities as a result of our planned move to a new corporate center. When completed, the new facility will allow us to consolidate our operations and expand our manufacturing capacity." Mr. Samant noted that the planned addition of a 500-liter fermenter at the new facility will allow Vical to remain a premier supplier of GMP-grade plasmid DNA, able to fulfill its own research, clinical, and anticipated commercial needs.

Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck & Co., Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor Inc., Merial and Boston Scientific Corporation. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(TM), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with prostate cancer. If you are interested in any of Vical`s clinical trials, please see our website at www.vical.com, or contact Cherie Smith by phone at [phone] or by e-mail at [e-mail].

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include statements regarding the state of development of the company`s technology, the expected timing of review and adjudication of data from the company`s Phase III trial of Allovectin-7(R), the status of the company`s Phase II trial of Allovectin-7(R), the future plans for Leuvectin(TM), the proposed areas of research in which the company`s technology may be most useful and the company`s plans to advance into preclinical development, enter into licensing or collaboration arrangements and in-license clinical-stage candidates in these areas, the progress of the company`s vaccine development programs and the potential for development of vaccines for other indications, the utility of the company`s technologies, including in-licensed and partnered technology, for therapeutic protein applications and vaccine applications, the scope of product development opportunities available to the company, and the manufacturing capabilities of the company. Actual results may differ materially from those projected due to a number of important factors, including risks regarding the ability of the company to effectively implement its product development strategy, delays that the company and its partners may experience in the regulatory approval process, the utility of the company`s technology in providing desired improvements in therapeutic protein and vaccine applications, the ability of the company to apply its technology developments to indications in addition to those currently being pursued, the ability of the company to supply GMP-grade plasmid DNA for its own use and for others from its new facilities, whether any product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical trials, the timing and expense of clinical trials, whether the company or its partners will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, the company`s ability to enter into and maintain licensing and collaboration agreements, the efforts the company`s partners and licensees expend on developing and commercialize products using the company`s technologies and additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

For further information, please contact Alan R. Engbring, Director, Investor Relations of Vical Incorporated, [phone]

MAKE YOUR OPINION COUNT - Click Here

http://tbutton.prnewswire.com/prn/11690X48435814 SOURCE Vical Incorporated

[er99ich]

@grignard
vielen dank für die t - zellen antwort!
und noch ne frage.

wer weiß genau was gmp-grade plasmid dna ist?

Mr. Samant noted that the planned addition of a 500-liter fermenter at the new facility will allow Vical to remain a premier supplier of GMP-grade plasmid DNA, able to fulfill its own research, clinical, and anticipated commercial needs. #
mfg er99ich.

[gholzbauer]

GMP=good manufacturing practice, vermute ich;
ist wohl sowas wie DIN-zertifiziert bei uns

[gholzbauer]

Friday March 22, 8:30 am Eastern Time
Forbes.com
Fighting A Killer: Malaria


As many as 2.7 million people, of which a disproportionate number are children, die each year from malaria, according to the World Health Organization. Many of these victims are children. Malaria is endemic in over 90 countries, and an estimated 300 to 500 new cases occur each year.

Humanitarian and economic rewards await companies with the right treatments for this terrible disease. Since malaria, which is spread by mosquitoes, is far more prevalent in impoverished countries, treatments against the disease must be both affordable and effective.

Chloroquine, the cheapest and most commonly used drug against malaria, is becoming ineffective because certain strains of Plasmodium falciparum, the malaria parasite, are becoming resistant. But several companies are developing new drugs or vaccines to fight malaria.

GlaxoSmithKline (NYSE:GSK - news) , for one, has joined forces with the nonprofit organization Malaria Vaccine Initiative (MVI) to finally fast-track the testing and approval of an anti-malaria vaccine. This vaccine, which uses a immune response enhancer licensed from Antigenics (NasdaqNM:AGEN - news) , has been in development since 1983. Like all vaccines, it stimulates the body`s immune system.

The vaccine candidate has been tested in both people that have never had malaria and in those that have been infected before. GlaxoSmithKline`s ultimate goal is to produce this vaccine for African children. GlaxoSmithKline expects to begin further trials in children in Mozambique sometime this year.

GlaxoSmithKline already has an anti-malarial medication that is appropriate for non-infected individuals traveling to regions where malaria is endemic. Each year 7 million Americans take such trips.

Last year GlaxoSmithKline earned $2.09 a share (before merger and restructuring adjustments). This year the nine analysts covering the company expect profits of $2.41 a share, giving it an estimated 2002 earnings multiple of 20.

The table below lists five companies with current or promising treatments for malaria. Aside from GlaxoSmithKline, many are small biotechnology outfits.

Framingham, Mass.-based Genzyme Transgenics (NasdaqNM:GZTC - news) is one such example. The company is seeking funding to enter clinical studies to develop its therapeutic malaria vaccine. This vaccine is based on a protein, MSP-1, that can be expressed through the milk of specially modified transgenic animals.

This vaccine prompts the immune system to attack malaria parasites as they emerge from the liver, so as to disrupt the disease cycle. Genzyme Transgenics was spun off from Genzyme (NasdaqNM:GENZ - news) in 1993. Transgenics currently does not have any products on the market but is working on 15 research projects.

Other small biotechnology companies include San Diego, Calif.-based Vical (NasdaqNM:VICL - news) , which is working on a vaccine in conjunction with the U.S. Navy for people who have never been exposed to the disease. Vical`s approach is to inject living cells with synthetic DNA formulations called plasmids, which contain genes of the disease being investigated. In the case of the malaria vaccine, the plasmids mimic the parasite and trigger an immune response in the infected person.

Vical reports that results of Phase 2 trials completed last November look promising. Last year Vical posted revenue of $11.4 million, up 50% over the previous year, but the company is not expected to be profitable through 2003.

Prices as of March 21. EPS: Earnings per share. Sources: FT Interactive, Market Guide and Thomson Financial/IBES via FactSet Research Systems; World Health Organization. Company Price Change From 52-Week High 2002 Estimated EPS Market Value ($mil)
Antigenics $14.79 -31% -1.41 $485
EntreMed 8.25 -64 -2.58 181
Genzyme Transgenics 3.63 -65 -0.68 110
GlaxoSmithKline 47.35 -18 2.41 145,730
List Of Web Sites

World Health Organization

National Institutes of Health

Malaria Vaccine Initiative

Program for Appropriate Technology in Health

[puhvogel]

@gholz:
Das hat nicht unmittelbar mit Vical zu tun, ist aber sicher ein Meilenstein in der Gentherapie allgemein, mit der du ja stark liebäugelst. Mukoviszidose ist die häufigste tödliche Genkrankheit. Es ist auch ein DNA-Transfer, aber nicht wie bei Vical im wesentlich frei sondern in Nanokapseln.

Cystic Fibrosis Patient Receives First-Of-Its-Kind Gene Transfer
Trial Tackles Root of Gene Defect

CLEVELAND, April 3 -- Copernicus Therapeutics, Inc., University Hospitals of Cleveland (UHC), Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) School of Medicine, and Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics Inc. (CFFTI), a nonprofit affiliate of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, today announced that the first person in a 12 patient study has received a first-of- its-kind non-viral gene transfer vector in an effort to develop gene therapy for cystic fibrosis (CF). This study, being led by Dr. Michael Konstan, aims to use gene transfer technologies to provide a normal copy of the CF gene to correct the underlying defect. The mutations of this gene are the root cause of the disease. This trial is the first step in a long process toward developing a more effective therapy for individuals with CF.
"The CF Foundation`s mission is to assure the development of the means to cure and control cystic fibrosis and to improve the quality of life for those with the disease," said Robert J. Beall, Ph.D., president and chief executive officer of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. "Copernicus is helping us realize this mission by tackling the root cause of CF, rather than only treating the symptoms. We will continue to work closely with Copernicus and are eagerly anticipating the results of this gene transfer trial and moving forward with this approach."

.....

"In recent years, medical research has explored new pplications of DNA- based therapeutics for the treatment of CF. For such DNA-based drugs to have a therapeutic effect, however, they must safely and effectively be transported into the nucleus of target cells," said Mark J. Cooper, M.D., senior vice president of science and medical affairs, Copernicus Therapeutics.
"Copernicus` development of proprietary methods to produce compacted DNA nanoparticles containing only a single nucleic acid molecule puts us at the forefront of using DNA as a pharmaceutical."
These DNA nanoparticles can much more efficiently cross the cell membrane and enter cell nuclei than DNA that has not been compacted. In addition, Copernicus has demonstrated that compacted DNA nanoparticles are effective in animal airway cells, can uniquely transfer DNA to non-dividing cells, can resist physical and enzymatic destruction, and can be adapted for use with a wide range of nucleic acids. Importantly, these nanoparticles have been shown to be safe, non-immunogenic, and non-toxic in animals, and chronic administration in people with CF may be possible without inciting toxic inflammatory or immune responses.

[gholzbauer]

Ich habe mit Gentherapie nicht mehr so viel am Hut.
VICL hab ich z.Z. keine, bei AXPH wurde ich durch CRA rausgeworfen, bei TKTX ist Enzymersatz vorrangig, und Ariad sollen gefälligst endlich ein paar der berühmten Kleinmoleküle in Phase I bringen, damit man den Wert nicht nur zum Zocken gebrauchen kann ...

[er99ich]

heute gabs news
vical forscht unter anderem für merial. diese firma produziert für haustiere usw. medikamente und impfstoffe. merial hat 1 million bezahlt, weil vical für sie forscht usw. könnt ihr ja alles selber nachlesen.
mfg er99ich

Vical Receives $1 Million From Merial in DNA Vaccine Collaboration

SAN DIEGO, April 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) announced today that it has received a payment of $1.0 million from Merial, a European-based joint venture between Merck and Co., Inc. (NYSE:MRK) and Aventis S.A. (NYSE:AVE), for the exercise of additional options under a 1995 agreement for veterinary preventive infectious disease vaccines.

To date, Vical has received a total of $7.0 million from Merial under the agreement. The $1.0 million payment will be recognized as revenue in the second quarter, and will not change the company`s forecast of a net loss between $28 million and $32 million for the full year 2002.

Merial previously had exercised selected options under the agreement, which covers the use of Vical`s patented naked DNA technology for preventive vaccines against infectious disease targets in domesticated animals. The agreement does not cover therapeutic vaccine applications. In exchange for the current payment, Merial has received exclusive licenses for selected targets. Under the agreement, Vical would receive payments upon the achievement of certain milestones and royalty payments on sales of commercialized vaccines.

"Merial continues to advance and broaden the application of our naked DNA technology in the animal health preventive vaccine area," said Vijay B. Samant, Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, "and to progress toward developing a new generation of vaccines for veterinary applications. Merial is the leading company in the significant animal health market, producing a wide range of pharmaceuticals and vaccines for livestock and pets, with substantial capacity to commercialize novel products."

[er99ich]

News von Vical
morgen gibt es den conference call.
in der 2 Jahreshälfte wird die entscheidung betr. allovectin fallen.
ansonsten ist das unternehmen auf kurs. sie erreiche ihre gesteckten ziele usw.. könnt ihr ja selber nachlesen.
mfg er99ich

Vical Announces First-Quarter 2002 Financial Results

SAN DIEGO, May 6 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) today announced that financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2002, met expectations and reflected continuing progress in the company`s product development programs.

The company reported first quarter 2002 revenues of $1.5 million compared with first quarter 2001 revenues of $2.4 million. The decrease in revenues was largely a result of a scheduled license payment from Centocor in the first quarter of 2001, and reduced contract research, manufacturing and services work in the first quarter of 2002. Results for the first quarter of 2002 do not include a $1.0 million payment from Merial for the exercise of additional options under a 1995 agreement for veterinary preventive infectious disease vaccines. That payment will be recognized as revenue in the second quarter of 2002.

The net loss for the first quarter of 2002 was $5.2 million or $0.26 per share, compared with a net loss of $2.0 million or $0.10 per share for the first quarter of 2001. The increase in net loss was primarily the result of a decline in investment income, reflecting significant reductions in interest rates and lower average cash balances, coupled with the decrease in revenues and an increase in expenses related to expansion of the company`s research and development initiatives.

The company had cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities of $127.4 million at March 31, 2002, compared with $134.1 million at December 31, 2001. Vical`s projected net loss for the full year 2002 remains between $28 million and $32 million.

Vijay B. Samant, Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Our financial performance was consistent with expectations, and our scientific programs have progressed just as we had planned. In our lead late-stage product development program, a low-dose Allovectin-7(R) cancer vaccine for malignant melanoma, the clinical data analyses are on schedule. Our Phase III registration trial with Allovectin-7(R) completed enrollment of 200 patients in September 2001; the last patient completed the final on-study evaluation on April 2, 2002; and we are proceeding with the collection and internal audit of data from this trial as planned. Once the audit is complete, the database will be locked and the adjudication process by an independent group of radiologists and oncologists will begin. We expect that the adjudication process will be finished and the final report of the study`s primary endpoints will be reviewed in the second half of 2002, allowing us to determine whether the data are sufficient to support filing for marketing approval.

"A separate Phase II trial with high-dose Allovectin-7(R) advanced quickly through dose escalation and is now treating patients at the full 2 mg dose, compared with a 10 mcg dose in previous trials, and for the first time, in multiple tumors. The excellent safety profile of our Allovectin-7(R) cancer vaccine has allowed us to explore the potential for this significantly more aggressive treatment regimen. The trial is recruiting very well, with 67 patients already enrolled, and we plan to achieve our initial target of completing enrollment of 80 patients before year-end 2002.

"In addition, we plan to select two targets from our research pipeline in 2002 to advance into preclinical development. Current programs under consideration include cancer therapeutics, infectious disease vaccines, and a protein therapeutic for veterinary use," added Mr. Samant. "We further intend to enter into two out-licensing or collaboration agreements in 2002. In addition, we plan to explore in-licensing or acquisition opportunities for late-stage product candidates consistent with our expertise, infrastructure and financial resources.

"Our existing collaborators have also continued to make progress. Merck published in January a series of HIV vaccine experiments in a non-human primate challenge model that demonstrated the utility of our core DNA technology in eliciting immune responses and protective immunity. Initial human data that Merck scientists presented in February at the 9th Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections, and in April at the Keystone Symposium on HIV-1 Protection and Control by Vaccination, were consistent with the earlier monkey data. Merial continues to focus their efforts with our core DNA technology in veterinary healthcare with the additional options exercised early in the second quarter. Vical has agreed to assist the Dale and Betty Bumpers Vaccine Research Center of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases in their Ebola vaccine program."

Vical will conduct a conference call to discuss the financial results with invited analysts and institutional investors tomorrow, May 7th, at noon Eastern Time. The call is open on a listen-only basis to any interested parties. To listen to the call, please dial 706-634-5542 at least ten minutes before the scheduled starting time and ask for the Vical conference call. A replay of the call will be available for 48 hours beginning about an hour after the call. To listen to the replay, please dial 800-642-1687 (or 706-645-9291 for international participants) and enter conference identification number 4002478. The call also will be available live and archived for seven days through the webcast center at www.vical.com/news/webcast.htm.

Invited analysts and institutional investors may ask questions during the conference call. Others may submit questions before the call by e-mail addressed to [e-mail] or by fax to 858-646-1150. Submitted questions will be screened for appropriateness and general interest. Selected questions will be answered as time permits at the end of the call.

[er99ich]

sieht gar nicht gut aus. gibts noch meinungen?? was meinen die profis unter euch, wie die perspektiven von vicl sind?
mfg er99ich

Vical Reviews Melanoma Program at ASCO Conference
20 May 2002, 06:30am ET
<http://a204.g.akamai.net/f/204/451/12h/finance.lycos.com/img… E-mail or <http://a204.g.akamai.net/f/204/451/12h/finance.lycos.com/img… Print this story [prnewswire]
- - - - -
/FROM PR NEWSWIRE LOS ANGELES 213-626-5500/ [STK] VICL [IN] MTC BIO [SU] TDS TO BUSINESS AND MEDICAL EDITORS:

Vical Reviews Melanoma Program at ASCO Conference

ORLANDO, Fla., May 20 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) presented a comprehensive review of its Allovectin-7(R) gene-based cancer vaccine program for metastatic melanoma at the 38th Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). The review included trial designs for the Phase II and Phase III registration trials and an update on the survival data from the Phase II registration trial. Also included was a brief status review of the high-dose Phase II trial.

High-Dose Program

The company`s high-dose Phase II trial is recruiting very well, with 67 patients enrolled as of May 3, 2002, with an initial enrollment target of up to 80 patients. The company plans to achieve its initial enrollment target before year-end 2002. The high-dose trial uses doses up to 2 mg of Allovectin-7(R), a 200-fold increase over previous trials, as well as delivery to as many as five tumor lesions. Previous trials were limited to delivery into single lesions.

Phase II Registration Trial

The company provided an update to the interim survival data for the Phase II Allovectin-7(R) registration trial originally reported at the May 2001 ASCO meeting. Based on the most recent database update, estimated median survival for all 78 patients treated in the Phase II trial was 14.3 months. Of the eight patients that investigators previously reported as responders (unaudited), seven were still alive at the time of the most recent database update.

Vical Incorporated, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focused on the development of pharmaceutical product candidates based on its patented gene delivery technology. A number of therapeutic and vaccine product candidates are currently under development for the prevention or treatment of cancer, infectious diseases and metabolic disorders by Vical and its collaborative partners, including Merck, Aventis Pasteur, Aventis Pharma, Human Genome Sciences, Centocor, Merial and Boston Scientific. Allovectin-7(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells, is in Phase II and Phase III testing in certain patients with metastatic melanoma and in Phase II testing in patients with head and neck cancer. Leuvectin(R), which uses a lipid-DNA complex to stimulate an immune response against cancer cells, is in Phase II testing in patients with prostate cancer. If you are interested in any of Vical`s clinical trials, please see our website at www.vical.com, or contact Cherie Smith by phone at 858-646-1177 or by e-mail at [e-mail].

[er99ich]

am 13.06.02 stellt vicl seine strategie und sein geschäftsmodell bei einer konferenz dar.
mal sehn was die fachleute sprechen.

SAN DIEGO, June 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) today announced that the presentation by President and Chief Executive Officer, Vijay B. Samant, at the Goldman Sachs Healthcare Conference in Laguna Niguel, CA on Thursday, June 13, 2002, will be webcast simultaneously at 7:40 a.m. Pacific Time (10:40 a.m. Eastern Time). Mr. Samant`s discussion at the conference will provide an overview of Vical`s technologies, strategic partnerships, and development programs.

was meint ihr zu diesem patent ??
mfg er99ich

SAN DIEGO, June 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) today announced the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 6,399,588, covering the gene-based delivery of interleukin-2 (IL-2) for the treatment of cancer.

Discovered and developed by Vical scientists, this patented gene-based treatment method delivers IL-2 locally within a tumor, and may provide benefits similar to systemic IL-2 protein therapy, potentially with fewer side effects. With Vical`s method, a highly stable ring of DNA encoding IL-2 is formulated with a cationic lipid. Once the DNA is delivered to the tumor, IL-2 protein is produced, which stimulates the immune system to attack and destroy the tumor. Recombinant IL-2 protein is an approved anti-cancer agent for the treatment of metastatic kidney cancer and metastatic melanoma. When given by repeated protein infusion, it is frequently associated with serious side effects. Vical`s patented delivery method may overcome that problem by providing more consistent IL-2 levels, which has the potential to expand the use of IL-2 in cancer patients.

Vical has more than 400 issued patents or pending patent applications worldwide, with broad coverage in the field of naked DNA gene transfer for both DNA vaccination and gene-based protein delivery. In 1997, Vical was issued U.S. Patent No. 5,641,665 for the specific construct of Leuvectin(R), the company`s gene-based IL-2 product candidate. In 2000, Vical was issued U.S. Patent No. 6,147,055 covering the gene-based delivery of human IL-2 for the treatment of cancer. The new patent expands the coverage to include gene-based delivery of other forms of IL-2.

[er99ich]

der kurs hat seinen boden gefunden. heute mal gute news. leider verdient vicl damit kein geld, was dringend notwendig wäre, denn gehälter usw. und forschung wollen bezahlt sein. vor längerem haben sie mit affen bereits erfolgreiche ergebnisse betr. eboa erzielt.
also anbei die news mfg er99ich
Vical Receives U.S. Government Contract to Manufacture Ebola Vaccine

SAN DIEGO, July 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) announced today that the company has been
awarded a contract to manufacture clinical-grade supplies of an experimental
DNA vaccine against Ebola for initial clinical development planned by the Dale
and Betty Bumpers Vaccine Research Center (VRC), National Institute of Allergy
and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health.
Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer, Vijay B. Samant, said,
"Over the last several years, Vical has developed significant expertise and
infrastructure, and has become recognized as a reliable manufacturer of
clinical-grade (cGMP) plasmid DNA. We are pleased to support the VRC`s Ebola
vaccine program, which has potential for prevention of both the naturally
occurring and weaponized forms. The beauty of using Vical`s technology
platform for such virulent agents is that development and production of
vaccines do not involve any handling of the pathogen itself."
"Our colleagues at the VRC and other investigators have demonstrated in a
variety of animal models that gene-based vaccines can induce protective
immunity to lethal challenge by Ebola viruses," said Vical`s Chief Scientific
Officer, David C. Kaslow, M.D. "With the recent issuance of the `two animal
rule` by the FDA, a new path has emerged for demonstrating effectiveness of
new products, such as Ebola vaccines, when human efficacy studies are not
feasible. We look forward to assisting Dr. Gary Nabel and his colleagues at
the VRC in advancing this promising approach into clinical development. We
are optimistic that this approach could lead to development of vaccines
against similar hemorrhagic fever viruses."
The current manufacturing contract does not change the company`s forecast
for a net loss of between $28 million and $32 million for 2002.
Vical`s patented naked DNA gene delivery technology allows scientists to
construct rings of genetic material, known as plasmids, that once inside the
body express one or more proteins. Vical`s technology may be applied to a
wide range of diseases, but is particularly well-suited to highly virulent
bioterrorism targets because it allows development of a vaccine without
handling the pathogen itself. This approach may have significant safety and
manufacturing advantages over traditional vaccines that use live, weakened, or
dead pathogens to produce an immune response. In earlier research, Dr. Nabel
and his associates demonstrated the ability of gene-based Ebola vaccines to
protect against disease in rodents and monkeys. The current manufacturing
contract will support the initial safety testing of a vaccine in humans.

[er99ich]

Zum Stand der Dinge.
Die Phase 3 AV-7 erbringt wohl keine signifikanten Ergebnisse.
Ansonsten haben die Jungs noch einiges zu forschen. Jedoch wird sich vor 2003 nicht viel tun.
Edwards hat vicl von by auf hold heruntergestuft, weil keine greifbaren Ergebnisse / Erfolge vorliegen. Über die Pipeline und die Kostenstruktur äußert er sich positiv / siehe Anhang.
Gibt es denn hier noch jemanden der sich für vicl interessiert ??
Wer glaub an die Zukunft von Vicl und einen Kurs von 10$ bis in einem Jahr ??
mfg er99ich

Hier der Originaltext.
SAN DIEGO, Sept. 18 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --
Vical Incorporated (NASDAQ:VICL) announced today that its low-dose Phase III
registration trial with Allovectin-7(R) in patients with metastatic melanoma
would not advance to an independent endpoint assessment and adjudication
committee (EAAC)(1) because an initial review of investigator-determined
efficacy by an external consultant indicated that the study would not meet
statistical significance of its primary endpoints; objective response rate
and/or time to disease progression. Although the efficacy data from the Phase
III trial do not support continued preparations for registration of a low
dose, single tumor injection product, Vical will continue its ongoing
high-dose, multiple tumor injection Allovectin-7(R) Phase II program.

EAAC Process
"The agreed upon EAAC process that we developed in close partnership with
FDA is a precisely defined, detailed three-step protocol," said Vijay B.
Samant, Vical`s President and Chief Executive Officer. "The first step, which
has been completed, is to have an independent contract research organization
collect and audit all the efficacy data, and then lock and maintain that
embargoed(2) efficacy database. The optional second step stipulated that
after approval of the EAAC process by FDA but prior to proceeding to EAAC
review, an independent consultant, agreed to by FDA, could review specific
data in the locked, embargoed database. In this step, Vical would remain
blinded to the efficacy data while the independent consultant, using a pre-
determined algorithm of specific statistical criteria agreed upon by FDA and
Vical, could determine whether proceeding to the comprehensive and resource-
intensive EAAC review was warranted. This second step has just been completed
and revealed that the study would not meet statistical significance of its
primary endpoints, as described above. As a result, we are not proceeding
with the third step, which comprised the assessment and adjudication of
efficacy data for the entire patient population by an independent panel of
three radiologists and an oncologist."
"Although we are disappointed by the results of the review," continued Mr.
Samant, "this EAAC process was effective in arriving at an early Go/No-Go
decision with FDA. We avoided prematurely embarking on the time-consuming and
costly process of Biologics License Application (BLA) filing without
compromising the integrity of the data analysis. The decision now allows us
to focus our attention and resources on the more promising Allovectin-7(R)
high-dose, multiple tumor injection program."

High-Dose Allovectin-7(R)
"There are four main reasons that we are continuing to pursue development
of our 2000 microgram high-dose, multiple-tumor injection Allovectin-7(R)
program in malignant melanoma," stated Mr. Samant. "First, the 10 microgram
low dose, single tumor injection Allovectin-7(R) program was first developed
over five years ago. Since then we have learned from our experiences in human
clinical trials of malaria vaccines with the U.S. Navy and from other DNA
vaccine trials that immune responses in humans appear to be DNA
dose-dependent. Second, our experience in prior trials has shown that while
overall response rates up to 15 percent have been observed, nearly 50 percent
of the injected tumors shrank substantially. As a result, injection of
multiple tumors needs to be studied to determine its effect on increasing
overall response rates. Third, our safety experience in the high-dose trial
is consistent with our experience in our low-dose registration trial. Because
the safety record with Allovectin-7(R) is excellent, any significant benefit
from Allovectin-7(R) would yield an extremely favorable risk-to-benefit ratio
when compared with conventional chemo- or biotherapies. Finally, although
survival was not an endpoint in the Phase II registration trial, the survival
data from the trial suggested a beneficial trend -- 14.3 months median
survival compared with published historical controls of 6 to 11 months. In
addition, seven of the eight responders from our interim analysis of the
low-dose Phase II registration trial were still alive at the last follow-up.
We cannot ignore that survival data and must determine if the higher dose

further improves survival."
Vical`s Chief Scientific Officer, David C. Kaslow, M.D., elaborated,
"Enrollment in our high dose non-registration Phase II trial has been quite
brisk, with 89 patients enrolled to date. Even though the original study
design of up to 80 patients was sufficient to evaluate the primary trial
endpoint of overall response rate, we requested and FDA allowed us to expand
enrollment up to 124 patients to provide greater statistical confidence in
conclusions that may be drawn from this non-registration trial. If the strong
physician and patient interest in this trial continues, we should be able to
confirm the good safety profile of Allovectin-7(R) and examine its efficacy
when administered at higher doses and injected into more than just a single
tumor. We are focusing our cancer research resources on melanoma and will
continue to offer this investigational treatment to patients who may have
exhausted other treatment alternatives. To that end, we plan to close our
Phase II trial with Allovectin-7(R) for early-stage head and neck cancer, in
which recruitment of patients had been extraordinarily difficult."
Vical expects to have interim data from the high-dose trial in time for
the May 2003 annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology.
Based on the results of the expanded high-dose Phase II trial, the company
will determine whether to initiate discussions with FDA on a potential Phase
III registration study with high-dose Allovectin-7(R).

Leuvectin(R)
"Following the discontinuation last year of our Phase II trial with
Leuvectin(R) in kidney cancer, we undertook a thorough review of our many
options," said Dr. Kaslow. "We have concluded that further independent
development of Leuvectin(R) for kidney cancer is not justified in light of
other priorities. In prostate cancer, we have conducted three trials in two
distinct patient populations, with initial encouraging results based on a
provisional surrogate marker, PSA, which drove our decision to proceed. We
have determined that further development for this indication would require far
greater resources than we can devote independently, so we are now bringing our
two current prostate cancer trials to a close. We plan to leverage the
knowledge we`ve gained from our Leuvectin(R) trials by evaluating its
potential application in patients with metastatic melanoma."
"Our action plan for the future is clear," said Mr. Samant. "We will
focus on those clinical programs that hold the greatest near-term potential
and drive promising new product candidates from our research pipeline into
preclinical development."
Vical will conduct a conference call to discuss the financial results with
invited analysts and institutional investors today, September 18, at noon
Eastern Time. Invited analysts and institutional investors may ask questions
during the conference call. The call is open on a listen-only basis to any
interested parties. To listen to the call, dial [phone], or
[phone] for international participants, at least ten minutes before the
scheduled starting time and ask for the Vical conference call. A replay of
the call will be available for 48 hours beginning about two hours after the
call. To listen to the replay, dial [phone], or [phone] for
international participants, and enter conference identification number 261495.
The call also will be available live and archived for seven days through the
webcast center at www.vical.com.

Vical, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focusing on the development of
biopharmaceutical products based on our patented gene delivery technologies
for the prevention and treatment of serious or life-threatening diseases.
Potential applications of our gene delivery technology include gene therapies
for cancer, in which the expressed protein is an immune system stimulant or
cancer-killing agent; DNA vaccines for infectious diseases or cancer, in which
the expressed protein is an antigen; and DNA therapeutic protein delivery, in
which the expressed protein is a therapeutic agent. We have retained all
rights to our internally developed cancer product candidates, Allovectin-7(R)
and Leuvectin(R). In addition, we collaborate with major pharmaceutical
companies and biotechnology companies that give us access to complementary
technologies or greater resources. These strategic partnerships provide us
with mutually beneficial opportunities to expand our product pipeline and
serve significant unmet medical needs.

This press release contains forward-looking statements subject to risks
and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from
those projected. Forward-looking statements include statements about the
company`s anticipated development milestones, as well as the company`s focus,
collaborative partners, product candidates, and developmental status. Risks
and uncertainties include whether the beneficial trend in survival data will
continue or improve, whether injection of multiple tumors will improve
response rate, whether data from clinical trials with Allovectin-7(R) will be
sufficient to support filing for marketing approval, whether enrollment in the
trial for high-dose Allovectin-7(R) will be completed on schedule, whether any
product candidates will be shown to be safe and efficacious in clinical
trials, the timing of clinical trials, whether Vical or its collaborative
partners will seek or gain approval to market any product candidates, and
additional risks set forth in the company`s filings with the Securities and
Exchange Commission. These forward-looking statements represent the company`s
judgment as of the date of this release. The company disclaims, however, any
intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

(1) "Endpoint assessment and adjudication committee (EAAC)" review
refers to a voluntary process, developed by the company and
consistent with FDA guidelines, by which efficacy results are
independently determined and then reconciled with results reported by
trial investigators to determine whether the protocol-specific
endpoints have been met.

(2) In preparation for the planned EAAC review, efficacy data from the
trial were collected, entered into a database, audited, and all
queries resolved by a contract research organization. The database
was then "locked" such that no further data changes could be made.
The sponsor (Vical) was barred, or "embargoed," from accessing or
reviewing the database. In June 2002, the Phase III registration
trial database was locked, and the EAAC charter was submitted to U.S.
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for review.

For further information, please contact Alan R. Engbring, Director of
Investor Relations of Vical, Inc., [phone].

MAKE YOUR OPINION COUNT - Click Here
http://tbutton.prnewswire.com/prn/11690X85454957

SOURCE Vical, Inc.
-0- 09/18/2002
/CONTACT: Alan R. Engbring, Director of Investor Relations of Vical,
Inc., [phone]/
/Web site: http://www.vical.com /


CPRT: Downgraded to Hold from Buy - CPRT`s margins are very healthy and we see no signs of any deterioration in its margins as we feel that it is a well run company. However, the continued moderation in revenue growth is going to cause CPRT`s net income growth to also moderate from its impressive growth rates experienced over the past several years. With expectations for very slight or even no margin expansion during fiscal 2003, EPS growth should approximate revenue growth in the 10%-15% range which is down from the 35%-45% growth experienced in net income over the past four fiscal years. VICL: Downgraded to Hold from Buy - Our price objective of $10 is based on the stock trading at 10X sales on projected 2006 revenues of approximately $50 million. We discount that price back to the present at a 30% rate of return to derive a current fair value of $10. A 10X sales multiple is consistent with where freshly profitable biotech stocks have traded historically. The main obstacle to achieving the PO is that if Vical fails to show positive results from the Phase 3 trial of Allovectin-7, its most advanced cancer treatment, it will fail meet our sales estimates.
EDS: Downgraded to Hold from Buy - Going back in time (to 1997) EDS was, unequivocally, a "busted" company selling at about 14X then four quarter forward looking consensus EPS of $2.12. Roll the clock five years forward - today EDS is at about the same price but a much different EDS. We think there is strong evidence that Dick Brown has turned this company around. Financial accounting and cost reporting systems have been installed where none had (at least effectively) previously existed, a once badly bloated cost structure has been heavily trimmed (but we think there is room for more).
Click below to read more about subscribing to the full JAGnotes product.
http://www.jagnotes.com/c/23/98.cfm?pagetitle=SubscribeNow Copyright 2002 JAGfn.com All Rights Reserved
- - - - -

[gholzbauer]

Von der Produktseite her tut sich nichts Berauschendes bei VICL (bin allerdings nur sehr oberflächlich informiert). Buchwert >6$/Aktie, Cash >6$, Burn rate 1,5$/y, Debt/Equity nahe Null sollten langsam einen Boden für den Kurs bedeuten. Ich würde evtl. in der Nähe von 2,5-3$ einsteigen, um auf eine kurz- bis mittelfristige Rückkehr auf 4,5-6$ zu spekulieren. Für mehr bräuchten wir einen signifikanten Fortschritt bei einem der Produktkandidaten, was ich fast nicht mehr erwarte. Die tolle Malaria-Impfung kommt auch kaum noch vorwärts, wenn ich das richtig sehe.

[er99ich]

doch noch jemand der sich für vicl interessiert.
da hast du schon recht. news betr. av7 gibts voraussichtlich (abschluß der tests phase 2)erst 2003. bis dato lebt vicl von forschunsaufträgen und lizenzeinnahmen, die die ausgaben nicht decken. =das problem vieler kleiner bios.
ich glaube immer noch an einen erfolg der naked gen technologie. sollte das so kommen, wird vicl einen großen erfolg haben. sollte es nicht so kommem, wird vicl vom kurszettel verschwindne / wie viele andere bios auch.
so long
mfg er99ich

[er99ich]

4,2 mille weg und dann sagen die, dass sich das nicht negativ auswirkt. wer kann mir das mal erklären. der kurs spricht eine andere sprache!!


Vical Updates Financial Results Forecast for 2002

SAN DIEGO, Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Vical Incorporated
(NASDAQ:VICL) today announced a write-down of $4.2 million of its investment
in Vascular Genetics Inc. (VGI). The company assessed the value of its
investment subsequent to the merger announcement between VGI and GenStar
Therapeutics. As a result the company is recording a write-down of its
investment in VGI from a value of $5.0 million to a value of $0.8 million.
The write-down will be recorded in the third quarter of 2002.

Forecast
The full-year 2002 net loss impact of the write-down of the company`s VGI
investment is expected to be offset by savings resulting from the company`s
decision not to proceed with adjudication of results of the company`s low-dose
Phase III registration trial with Allovectin-7(R) in patients with metastatic
melanoma, higher-than-planned contract manufacturing revenues, and cost
controls. As a result, the company is maintaining its original forecast for a
net loss of between $28 million and $32 million for full-year 2002.
"It is important to note that the write-down of VGI will have no impact on
our cash position," said Martha J. Demski, Vical`s Chief Financial Officer,
"but the offsetting reductions in spending and increases in contract revenue
will generate a favorable impact on the company`s cash position for 2002
compared with earlier expectations. We continue to fund our preclinical
vaccine programs actively, and plan to provide further details on these
programs by the end of the year."

Vical, The Naked DNA Company(TM), is focusing on the development of
biopharmaceutical products based on our patented gene delivery technologies
for the prevention and treatment of serious or life-threatening diseases.
Potential applications of our gene delivery technology include gene therapies
for cancer, in which the expressed protein is an immune system stimulant or
cancer-killing agent; DNA vaccines for infectious diseases or cancer, in which
the expressed protein is an antigen; and DNA therapeutic protein delivery, in
which the expressed protein is a therapeutic agent. We have retained all
rights to our internally developed product candidates. In addition, we
collaborate with major pharmaceutical companies and biotechnology companies
that give us access to complementary technologies or greater resources. These
strategic partnerships provide us with mutually beneficial opportunities to
expand our product pipeline and serve significant unmet medical needs.

[tommihe]

Vical evtl. kurz vor Ausbruch!aktuell 3.4Dollar
mal anschauen.