Poolbeg Pharma (POLB) has secured a South African patent for its Immunomodulator II technology, providing protection for lead asset POLB 001 for the prevention of hypercytokinaemia and severe influenza until December 2038.
The patent strengthens the clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company's intellectual property portfolio as it advances POLB 001 across multiple indications, including cancer immunotherapy-induced Cytokine Release Syndrome (CRS) and severe influenza.
POLB 001 is a potent and selective p38 MAP kinase inhibitor designed to target excessive inflammatory responses. The therapy is being developed to address significant unmet medical needs in both oncology supportive care and infectious diseases, with the potential to improve outcomes for patients while reducing the burden on healthcare systems.
The South African grant adds to Poolbeg's growing portfolio of patents covering p38 MAP kinase inhibitors for severe influenza and the use of POLB 001 in preventing hypercytokinaemia. The company has also filed additional patent applications, particularly relating to cancer immunotherapy-induced CRS, as it continues to build protection around the asset and enhance its commercial appeal for potential licensing and partnership opportunities.
"This latest patent grant reflects our commitment to further strengthen POLB 001's global IP portfolio, enhancing its value and attractiveness to prospective partners," said Poolbeg Chief Executive Officer Dr Jeremy Skillington.
"POLB 001 holds the potential to significantly benefit patients and healthcare systems globally across multiple disease areas, and this patent represents another step forward in our mission to positively impact the lives of patients."
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The latest patent grant continues Poolbeg's steady progress in building a comprehensive intellectual property estate around POLB 001. With patent protection extending to 2038 in another jurisdiction and additional applications under review, the company is strengthening the commercial foundations of one of its key assets while increasing its attractiveness to future development and licensing partners.