GlycoMimetics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a new class of glycobiology-based therapies for a broad range of indications, announced today that preclinical data related to its lead drug candidate, GMI-1070, has been published in the current issue of Nature Medicine. The paper describes a new function of E-selectin related to the cycling of hematopoetic stem cells in the bone marrow. Hematopoetic stem cells are multipotent stem cells that give rise to many blood cell types. In the paper, authors highlight how genetically knocking-out E-selectin, or treatment with GMI-1070, protects these stem cells from some of the toxic effects of chemotherapy.

“This paper describes an important role for E-selectin in both signaling and differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells,” said John. L. Magnani, Ph.D., one of the paper’s authors and Vice President & Chief Scientific Officer of GlycoMimetics. “Understanding this role opens the door to other possible clinical uses of compounds such as GMI-1070, which are E-selectin antagonists. In addition to GMI-1070, a pan-selectin antagonist partnered with Pfizer, GlycoMimetics has a large family of additional E-selectin specific antagonists. These include compounds we are currently optimizing for potential use as oral drugs.”

About GlycoMimetics, Inc.

GlycoMimetics is a privately held biotechnology company that utilizes novel and proprietary glycobiology technology to develop treatments for diseases, especially those with high unmet needs. The company's initial focus is on therapeutics to treat inflammation, cancer, and infectious diseases. In October 2011, GlycoMimetics entered into an exclusive worldwide licensing agreement with Pfizer Inc. for the GlycoMimetics investigational compound GMI-1070. GMI-1070 is a pan-selectin antagonist currently in Phase 2 development for the treatment of vaso-occlusive crisis associated with sickle cell disease. GMI-1070 has received Orphan Drug and Fast Track status from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For additional information, please visit the company's web site: http://www.glycomimetics.com.