STCube Obtains Japanese Patent for Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor 'PD-1 Antibody'

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunseok Yoo] STCube, a bio company developing immune checkpoint inhibitors, announced on the 28th that it has acquired the Japanese patent rights for the 'PD-1 antibody' jointly developed with the MD Anderson Cancer Center. This expands the patent acquisition region to Japan following the U.S. patent obtained in October last year.

The Japanese patent was jointly acquired by STCube and the University of Texas System of the MD Anderson Cancer Center. Glycosylation of proteins present on the cell membrane surface plays an important role in cell function. Based on this, STCube developed the antibody 'hSTM418' targeting the immune checkpoint protein PD-1 on the cell membrane. STCube holds the core technology for producing antibodies against glycosylated proteins.

'hSTM418' promotes anticancer immune responses and increases the survival period of cancer patients more effectively than other PD-1 antibodies (Keytruda, Opdivo) approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

An STCube representative stated, "Through acquiring the Japanese patent, we have demonstrated the distinctiveness and advancement of the improved PD-1 antibody drug. Additionally, having secured a stable drug production base by signing a CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) contract with Samsung Biologics, we will accelerate clinical trials."

He added, "STCube applied for Phase 1 IND for the 'BTN1A1 antibody' 'hSTC810' to the Korea Food and Drug Administration and the U.S. FDA on the 6th and 17th, respectively, and we expect approvals to be granted sequentially starting as early as January. After clinical approval, we are closely coordinating with clinical institutions such as MD Anderson Cancer Center to prepare for rapid progress."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.