LXR Biotechnology Inc., a company specializing in apoptosis, hasfiled a registration statement with the Securities and ExchangeCommission for an initial public offering of 3 million shares ofcommon stock, with a target range of $6-8 per share.

LXR of Richmond, Calif., filed for the offering on Dec. 10, with D.Blech & Co. Inc. serving as the underwriter.

LXR was founded in April 1992 to develop therapeutics to treatdiseases caused by the abnormal or disregulation of naturallyoccurring, programmed cell death (apoptosis). The failure ofcells to undergo apoptosis in a timely manner can play a criticalrole in proliferative diseases such as cancer; conversely, if cellsundergo apoptosis prematurely, the result can be severe tissuedamage such as evidenced in stroke.

LXR has developed an assay system to screen small moleculesthat may affect apoptosis. In addition, the company hasidentified, developed or in-licensed lead compounds for its R&Dprograms on cardiovascular disease, metastatic breast cancerand immunosuppressive disorders. In particular, LXR hasidentified and filed patent applications on a small moleculeagent that in vitro exhibits anti-apoptotic effects and which,based on clinical trials for unrelated indications, is safe forhuman use.

-- Jennifer Van Brunt Senior Editor

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