NASDAQ: $GNPX
In a significant move to strengthen its international intellectual property portfolio, clinical-stage gene therapy company Genprex, Inc. (NASDAQ: GNPX) recently announced that the Israel Patent Office (ILPO) has officially granted a patent covering the use of its proprietary Reqorsa® gene therapy (quaratusugene ozeplasmid) in combination with PD-1 antibodies for cancer treatment.
Strategic Intellectual Property Growth
This latest patent grant serves as a critical milestone for Genprex. By securing protection in Israel, the company continues to build a defensive moat around its flagship gene therapy candidate. Thomas Gallagher, Senior Vice President of Intellectual Property and Licensing at Genprex, emphasized the importance of this development: “Securing this patent in Israel further solidifies Genprex’s robust patent estate for Reqorsa®, particularly for its synergistic combination with PD-1 antibodies in treating various cancers. This strategic expansion builds upon our existing intellectual property in numerous major markets worldwide and underscores the scientific innovation behind Reqorsa.”
With this addition, the patent landscape for Reqorsa® continues to grow globally. The company already holds similar patents in the United States, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Australia, Chile, China, Singapore, and across Europe, signaling a cohesive strategy to defend its research as it moves toward clinical milestones.
Addressing a Critical Health Need
The timing of this patent grant is particularly relevant given the health landscape in Israel. Lung cancer remains a primary cause of mortality in the region. According to the Israel Cancer Association, lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in 2021, accounting for 21.1% of cancer deaths among men and 11.8% among women. Furthermore, data from the Israeli Ministry of Health shows a concerning 33% increase in lung cancer cases over the last decade, with approximately 200 new diagnoses every month.
The Potential of Reqorsa®
Reqorsa® represents a novel approach to oncology by utilizing gene therapy to combat aggressive diseases. While the therapy is currently being developed for use in combination with existing, approved cancer drugs, preclinical studies have demonstrated that Reqorsa® works in a complementary fashion with targeted therapies and immunotherapies. By enhancing the efficacy of current standard-of-care treatments, Genprex aims to provide better patient outcomes, particularly for those facing lung cancer.
As Genprex continues to advance its clinical trials, this expanding patent portfolio provides the legal framework necessary to bring these therapies to market. By protecting the synergy between its gene therapy and PD-1 inhibitors, the company is positioning itself as a vital player in the future of precision oncology.