Circadian Technologies Limited (CIR) announced today that its 100% owned subsidiary company, Vegenics Limited, has been granted Japanese Patent 4324709 claiming the VEGF-C protein, VEGF-C gene and antibodies to VEGF-C as well as the use of these molecules in a broad spectrum of therapeutic indications, including the treatment of cancer. VEGF-C, a major novel target for cancer and other diseases, is closely related to VEGF-A, the target of Genentech’s Avastin , a leading cancer therapy with annual worldwide sales in excess of ® US$7.5 billion. This Japanese patent together with the large number of VEGF-C patents granted in the United States and Europe provides Circadian with a major commercial advantage and access to the world’s major pharmaceutical markets. Japan is the world’s second largest market for pharmaceuticals after the USA comprising around 11%.
“Stemming from the enormous success of Avastin , the development of antibody drugs targeting ® angiogenic molecules such as VEGF-C is widely considered one of the most promising strategies in the pharmaceutical industry,” commented Circadian CEO, Mr Robert Klupacs. This patent adds to our considerable estate of intellectual property covering VEGF family members. It is an important protection for our internal therapeutics development programs and represents a major asset for commercial partnerships with other companies seeking to pursue this approach.”
Circadian (CIR) is a biologics drug developer utilising the significant intellectual property portfolio around Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) C and D that it has accumulated in its unlisted wholly owned subsidiary Vegenics. The applications for the VEGF technology, which functions in regulating blood supply, are substantial and broad. Circadian’s internal product development programs are focussed on novel anti-cancer therapeutics for large unmet needs.
