DYNAGEN TESTS DRUG TO CURB SMOKINGDynaGen Inc. of Cambridge, Mass., announced Thursday that ithas begun Phase I clinical trials of its long-lasting NicEraseSystem to help people quit smoking.

NicErase, which uses the company's proprietary drug deliverytechnology, consists of an undisclosed non-nicotine-basedtherapeutic in a biodegradable polymer. Based on animalstudies, doctors would inject the therapeutic into patients oncea week for four weeks, said DynaGen spokesman Jack Barlow.No further doses would be required.

NicErase's competition in the $1 billion worldwide marketincludes Marion Merrell Dow's Nicorette gum. MMD of KansasCity is also seeking Food and Drug Administration approval fora transdermal nicotine patch, Nicoderm, which it has developedwith Alza Corp. of Palo Alto, Calif.

Barlow said NicErase's advantages include a non-addictive,non-nicotine-based formulation and better patient compliancethan for the patch, which must be changed daily.

Dynagen expects to complete Phase III trials by the thirdquarter of 1992, said Barlow. The company is looking for apartner to produce and market the product.

Dynagen stock (NASDAQ: DYGN) closed unchanged Thursday at$8.25 -- CTV

RIBI TO SUPPLY SKB WITH ADJUVANTS

Ribi ImmunoChem Research Inc. said Thursday it has signed anagreement to supply SmithKline Beecham with its adjuvants forhuman and veterinary vaccine development andcommercialization.

The Hamilton, Mont., company granted SKB an exclusiveworldwide license to use Ribi's adjuvants (immunostimulants)for human applications. The license is non-exclusive forveterinary uses. Ribi will be paid to supply the adjuvants andreceive sales royalties.

Ribi's adjuvants are being used in two malaria vaccines inPhase II clinical testing that are being developed by SKB incollaboration with by the U.S. Army and Navy.

Ribi common stock (NASDAQ:RIBI) closed at $4.75 on Thursday,up 38 cents.

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