Orphan drug designation granted for aerosolized alpha1-proteinease inhibitor for alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency

Talecris Biotherapeutics was granted orphan drug designation by the FDA for the development of an aerosol formulation of alpha1-proteinease inhibitor to treat congenital alpha1-antitrypsin (AAT) deficiency. AAT deficiency is a chronic, hereditary condition that increases the risk of certain diseases, especially emphysema, which typically emerges in the fourth decade of life.

Alpha1-proteinease inhibitor is derived from human plasma and works by raising the levels of alpha1-proteinease inhibitor in the blood and lungs.

For more information call (919) 316-6300 or visit www.talecris.com.