Amgen To Begin Human Bone Mass Trials Of Osteoprotegerin

Amgen has initiated the first human clinical trial of osteoprotegerin (OPG), a recombinant version of a naturally-occurring protein that appears to be a critical regulator of bone mass. If this first trial identifies OPG to be safe and well-tolerated in healthy, post-menopausal women, Amgen will consider further trials to demonstrate safety and efficacy in appropriate disease indications.

Amgen believes OPG may be useful in treating medical conditions such as osteoporosis and cancer-related bone metastasis, or the spreading of cancer to the bones. Bone mass is maintained in the body by regulation of the competing activities of bone-forming cells (osteoblasts) and bone-resorbing cells (osteoclasts). Low bone mass is thought to be a result of the bone breaking down more quickly than it is formed.

For more information: David Kaye, Amgen, Amgen Center, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320-1789. Tel: 805-447-6692. Fax: 805-447-1010.