Visualase To Be Awarded $2.1 Million For Prostate Cancer Research.

Visualase Inc. was selected for a $2.1 million grant from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. The precision and control of the Visualase technology has made possible the ablation of tissue in areas such as brain and prostate.

Houston, TX  February 10, 2010 — Visualase Inc. announced today that it has been selected for a grant $2.1 million from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). On January 20, CPRIT Chief Science Officer Dr. Al Gilman, announced awards to 16 institutions based in Texas which are on the forefront of cancer research and treatment. Visualase is one of only two private companies to receive such a grant and stands with established cancer institutions such as The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine, and UT Health Science Centers, among others.

Visualase Technology. Brain image during treatment.

“We’re thrilled to be recognized by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas and we’re looking forward to accelerating our efforts in providing patients in Texas and across North America with better treatment options for prostate cancer. Doctors Ashok Gowda and Roger McNichols deserve all of the credit for not only developing our technology, but also collaborating with health professionals to make an immediate impact on improving patient outcomes,” CEO Bill Hoffman said.

The focus of the grant will be continued clinical exploration of focal treatment of cancerous tumors in the prostate, a treatment which could significantly reduce the rate of side-effects associated with conventional “whole gland” treatments, including prostatectomy and whole gland irradiation. The clinical study to be funded by the grant will be lead by a team from M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

The unprecedented level of precision and control afforded by the Visualase technology has made possible ablation of tissue in highly sensitive areas such as brain and prostate. Doctors are currently using the system for ablation of brain, prostate, liver, bone, and other solid tumors. For more information about the Visualase Technology and Visualase Inc., visit http://www.visualaseinc.com.

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