Search

The article discusses a patent application for an ungulate-derived polyclonal immunoglobulin specific for influenza virus, filed on February 16, 2024. Topics include the development of this immunoglobulin from transchromosomic bovines, its potential therapeutic uses, and the challenges associated with influenza virus mutations.

The article focuses on a U.S. patent application filed by Homology Medicines Inc. for an adeno-associated virus (AAV) gene therapy aimed at treating phenylketonuria (PKU). It explains that the patent details a novel AAV composition designed to restore phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) gene function in PKU patients, with specific capsid proteins and regulatory elements to ensure effective gene delivery.

The article focuses on a study conducted at Pfizer Inc. examining the prevalence of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) against adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors. The study found significant variability in NAb prevalence across different AAV serotypes, countries, and demographics, with AAV1 and AAV5 showing the highest and lowest prevalence, respectively. It provides new insights into the immunogenicity of AAVs and may guide the design of more effective AAV-based gene therapies.

The article reports that Celltrion Inc. has been granted patent number 12065482 for a stable liquid pharmaceutical formulation of anti-influenza virus antibodies. Topics discussed include the formulation's stability across various temperatures, the challenges in maintaining antibody stability, and the need for effective treatments against diverse influenza virus subtypes.

The article reports that Immorna Biotherapeutics Inc. has received a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to advance the clinical development of its messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA)-based Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine, JCXH-108. Topics include the vaccine's enhanced stability and logistical benefits, the grant's impact on expediting clinical trials and regulatory processes, and potential global health benefits, particularly for low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

A study conducted in Sao Paulo, Brazil examined the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human papillomavirus (HPV) in incarcerated women. The study found that the overall prevalence of cytological abnormalities was 5.8%, with 62.2% of women testing positive for HPV. The most common STIs detected were Ureaplasma parvum, Mycoplasma hominis, and Trichomonas vaginalis. The researchers concluded that the high rates of STIs and HPV in the female prison population highlight the need for increased attention and implementation of screening programs and treatment measures. Further studies are needed to determine the most effective ways to engage women in prevention programs. [Extracted from the article]

Gilead Sciences Inc. has been issued a patent for Thiadiazole IRAK4 inhibitors. These inhibitors may be useful in the treatment of inflammatory and fibrotic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and lupus, as well as certain cancers. The compounds have been found to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and type I interferons. Currently, there are no approved IRAK4 inhibiting pharmaceuticals, so this patent provides a potential new treatment option. [Extracted from the article]

A systematic review conducted by Sanofi-Aventis Deutschland GmbH in Germany aimed to summarize the epidemiological and economic burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in the country. The review included 42 articles and found that RSV is a major cause of acute lower respiratory infection and hospitalizations among infants, young children, and the elderly. The highest burden of RSV infection was observed in infants and young children, with limited exploration of the impact on healthy children or the elderly. The study suggests that more focus should be placed on understanding the medical and economic burden of RSV in these groups. [Extracted from the article]

The USPTO has published a patent application titled "Release Assay For Determining Potency Of Self-Amplifying Rna Drug Product And Methods For Using" by Glaxosmithkline Biologicals SA. The patent application describes a release assay that measures the potency of a drug product containing self-amplifying mRNA (SAM) and a non-viral delivery system. The assay detects double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) in cells incubated with the drug product, providing a surrogate endpoint for potency. This assay eliminates the need for animal tests or antigen expression assays, making it a valuable tool for vaccine development. The patent application also includes a process for manufacturing the drug product and determining its potency using the release assay. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Quest Diagnostics Inc. examined the social determinants of Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) infection in the United States from 2016 to 2021. The study found that there was an increasing trend in HCV antibody and RNA positivity rates among individuals in higher poverty quintiles. Conversely, increasing levels of education were associated with decreasing HCV positivity rates. The study also observed persistent differences in positivity rates based on race/ethnicity, with residents of predominantly Black non-Hispanic and Hispanic zip codes being less likely to test positive for HCV RNA. These findings may inform targeted intervention initiatives by public health agencies. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Hamad Medical Corporation in Doha, Qatar have published a clinical practice guideline on viral hepatitis in pregnancy. The guideline provides recommendations on screening, management, and prevention of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in pregnant women. The recommendations are based on a comprehensive literature search and are classified by strength and evidence quality. The guideline also includes ungraded good practice points to provide guidance in the absence of sufficient evidence. This research has been peer-reviewed and is available in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by Pfizer has reported new findings on the use of abrocitinib in the treatment of moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis, a type of non-melanoma skin cancer. The study analyzed data from over 3800 patients with up to 4 years of exposure to abrocitinib. The results showed that abrocitinib had a manageable long-term safety profile, with no new safety concerns identified. However, certain patient populations, particularly those aged 65 and older, had a higher risk of specific adverse events. Overall, the study supports the use of abrocitinib as a treatment option for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis. [Extracted from the article]

The USPTO has published a patent application titled "Coronavirus Neutralizing Compositions And Associated Methods" online. The application focuses on the development of fusion proteins that can effectively treat existing and future coronaviruses. These fusion proteins consist of a neutralizing polypeptide, a linker, and an antibody that binds to specific regions of coronavirus spike proteins. The invention aims to address the limited therapeutic options for COVID-19 and other coronavirus infections, as well as potential future outbreaks caused by new coronaviruses. The application also includes methods for producing these fusion proteins and pharmaceutical preparations for treating individuals infected with or at risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2. [Extracted from the article]

The NaphCare Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community well-being, has published research on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare in jails. The study analyzed changes in jail populations and the prevalence of medical and mental health issues among incarcerated individuals from 2019 to 2023. Key findings include a 31% decrease in the jail population early in the pandemic, an increase in detainees prescribed medication for behavioral health conditions, and a higher percentage of detainees requiring medication for health needs. This study provides valuable insights for improving correctional healthcare services. [Extracted from the article]

Prime Vax Immuno-Oncology Inc. has been issued a patent for a method of treating cancer using Dengue virus serotype 1 (DENV-1). The patent describes the use of the virus to stimulate the immune system and target low-perfusion tumor sites. The method involves administering an effective amount of the virus to a subject, with specific concentrations and administration methods outlined. The patent also mentions the use of non-ionic surfactants, non-reducing sugars, excipients, and salts in the composition. The patent claims that the method can reduce the size of solid cancers, including melanoma, by at least 60%. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on a newly issued patent for using in vitro-synthesized single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) to induce biological or biochemical effects in mammalian cells. Topics include the development of RNA compositions and methods for their application, the advantages of using ssRNA over traditional viral methods for gene introduction, and potential improvements in the efficiency and safety of generating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).

The article focuses on a patent application for an oncolytic virus designed to target and destroy tumor cells while stimulating immune responses. Topics include the development and engineering of oncolytic viruses for enhanced tumor selectivity, the use of herpes simplex viruses (HSV) in oncolytic therapies, and the incorporation of therapeutic payloads such as immunostimulatory proteins to improve cancer treatment efficacy and safety.

The article focuses on a patent application for genetically-modified Saccharomyces yeast strains aimed at enhancing therapeutic and preventative treatments. Topics include the cost and complexity of manufacturing conventional therapeutic polypeptides, the limitations of current polypeptide-based treatments, and the potential for yeast-based systems to offer a more cost-effective and stable alternative.

The article focuses on Pfizer and BioNTech receiving U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and emergency use authorization for their Omicron KP.2-adapted COVID-19 vaccine for the 2024-2025 season. Topics include the approval for individuals 12 years and older, emergency use authorization for those 6 months through 11 years, and the vaccine's improved response against current Omicron sublineages.

The United States Government has been issued a patent for HIV-1 Env fusion peptide nanoparticle carrier conjugates and their use. The patent describes novel immunogenic conjugates that can elicit an immune response to HIV-1 Env in a subject. These conjugates consist of a self-assembling protein-nanoparticle carrier fused to HIV-1 Env fusion peptides. The invention also includes methods of generating an immune response to HIV-1 Env protein and treating or preventing HIV-1 infection. This patent provides potential advancements in the development of measures to prevent the spread of HIV-1. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for vaccine candidates for human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that have attenuated phenotypes. The patent describes the development of live attenuated RSV strains that are immunogenic and refractory to de-attenuation. These strains have been modified with specific mutations to reduce their virulence while maintaining their ability to replicate and stimulate an immune response. The invention also includes isolated polynucleotide molecules encoding the modified RSV strains. The patent aims to provide vaccine candidates for RSV with reduced virulence. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Merck & Co. Inc. discusses the impact of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination on the burden of juvenile- and adult-onset recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (JORRP and AORRP) in the United States. JORRP and AORRP are serious conditions caused by oral HPV infections that can lead to medical problems and even death. The study found that HPV vaccination has resulted in significant reductions in disease burden, saving lives, improving quality-adjusted life-years, and reducing treatment costs. The model predicts a 95% reduction in JORRP and AORRP incidence by 2040, with only a few cases projected between 2040 and 2121. This research highlights the positive impact of HPV vaccination on public health and the economy. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Fujifilm Corporation have submitted a patent application for a manufacturing method of an adeno-associated virus (AAV) that aims to improve the production amount of the virus. The method involves reducing the expression level of the E40RF6 gene, which is necessary for AAV production, or reducing the amount of the gene transferred into cells. The patent application also includes a method for transferring the E4 region, which contains the E40RF6 gene, into cells to further enhance AAV production. The application provides detailed claims and descriptions of the manufacturing method, cell, and expression vector. [Extracted from the article]

Renagade Therapeutics Management Inc. has been issued a patent for engineered retrons and their use in genome editing. Retrons are DNA sequences that produce a unique satellite DNA called msDNA, which can be used as donor DNA templates for precise genome editing. The patent discusses the challenges of delivering donor DNA templates and proposes recombinant retrons with genetic modifications to improve their functionality. The patent also describes a gene editing system that utilizes delivery vehicles containing RNA cargo to modify genes in cells, including mRNA molecules encoding a programmable nuclease and a reverse transcriptase. This system can be used in various applications, such as gene therapy. The patent was filed by Brian Goodman and is assigned to Renagade Therapeutics Management Inc. [Extracted from the article]

The article reports on the issuance of patent number 12053555 for a new ultraviolet-C (UV-C) disinfecting device designed for use in aircraft and other confined spaces. Topics discussed include the challenges of disinfecting aircraft interiors, the use of UV-C light for effectively eliminating viruses, and the device's design to ensure safety and compliance while operating in occupied spaces.

The article reports that Takachiho Shirasu Corp. has published a patent application for an antiviral composition designed to combat airborne viruses. Topics discussed include the limitations of current antiviral and antibacterial agents, the use of inorganic compounds with antiviral properties, and the development of a porous antiviral composition made from Shirasu.