Protein Design Labs says that a mid-stage trial of its experimental drug ularitide -- one of its leading drug candidates -- helped patients with severe heart disease by easing symptoms and cutting mortality rates. In particular, the new drug helped without causing kidney toxicity, a major health issue for patients with acute decompensated congestive heart failure, a condition that can reduce kidney function.

"We are very pleased with the results of the SIRIUS II trial and are optimistic about ularitide's potential as a treatment for ADHF patients based on data to date," said Steve Benner, MD, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, PDL. "We are committed to moving ularitide ahead, and therefore look forward to initiating new clinical studies in the United States and Europe to facilitate its global development."

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