“The field of medical research is an ever-changing environment in which new innovations are continually taking place,” said Rehberg, a member of the House Appropriations Committee.  “LigoCyte is on the cutting edge of many of these innovations. This grant will assist them in continuing the important work they are doing.”

            The grant is part of the Department of Health and Human Services Small Business Innovation Research Grant.  These grants support scientific excellence and technological innovation through the investment of federal funds into small businesses that are supporting research and development needs. 

            LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals, Inc. has produced a number of novel drugs to fight chronic inflammatory disorders and prevent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections.  However, LigoCyte’s drugs are unique in that they work by altering the disease process, rather than just simply reducing the disease symptoms.  LigoCyte was incorporated in 1998 and has 47 employees.

            “We are excited about this opportunity to continue the clinical development of our lead drug candidate for the treatment of acute inflammatory respiratory diseases,” said Donald P. Beeman, CEO of LigoCyte Pharmaceuticals, Inc.  “This award from the NIH-SBIR continuing Phase II program, endorses our successful track record with peer-reviewed validation of our drug development. “