The purpose of this column is to highlight and summarize recent key patents in the pharmaceutical arena issued by the US Patent Office in December, 2024.
Medical Implants and Methods of Manufacture;
D. Johns, J.J. Crudden and S. Sanker; Diffusion Inc., US; U.S. Patent # 12,178,936; December 31, 2024.
This invention relates to implantable biomaterial devices designed to prevent biofilm formation, promote osseointegration or tissue integration, and optionally release therapeutic metal ions such as magnesium, silver, copper, and zinc. These implants may be engineered with a high surface population of zeolite, a ceramic material, which can be loaded with antimicrobial ions for improved infection prevention and tissue bonding. These devices are intended for various orthopedic and surgical applications, including bone and joint replacements, spinal implants, and trauma plates.
Nicotine Salts, Co-Crystals, and Salt Co-Crystal Complexes;
G. M. Dull, S.del Rio Gancedo, and J. G. Julia; R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, US; U.S. Patent # 12,180,179; December 31, 2024.
This invention introduces nicotine salt co-crystals, which are versatile and can be incorporated into smoking articles like electronic cigarettes, smokeless tobacco products, and pharmaceutical products. These nicotine salts have been specified by unique X-ray powder diffraction patterns. These patterns help identify and differentiate the various forms. It also outlines methods of preparing these nicotine salt forms and salt co-crystals. These forms are designed to optimize nicotine delivery in an efficient and controlled way for both smoking and smokeless products as well as for therapeutic uses.
Sonosensitization;
S.L. Marcus; SonalaSense, Inc., US: U.S. Patent # 12,168,055; December 17, 2024.
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and sonodynamic therapy (SDT) are both techniques used to selectively destroy cancer cells, but they differ in their mechanisms and methods of action. PDT uses light-sensitive compounds (photosensitizers) that accumulate in tumor cells. When exposed to specific wavelengths of light, in the presence of oxygen, these compounds generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in a reduction in the size of the tumor. Hematoporphyrins and their derivatives have been used in PDT and SDT therapies. The patent discloses medical treatments using ultrasound and an ultrasound sensitizer specifically 5-aminolevulinic acid. SDT uses focused ultrasound waves to activate sonosensitizers, which can also generate ROS. The ultrasound causes mechanical effects (like cavitation) that enhance the destruction of cells. Focused ultrasound can penetrate deeper tissues than light.
Intracameral Drug Delivery Depots;
Incept LLC, US: A. S. Sawhney, A. Driscoll, C.D. Blizzard, A.D. Desai, and P. Jarrett; U.S. Patent # 12,171,869; December 24, 2024.
Xerogels are solid-formed gels. They possess higher porosity and larger surface area. The patent describes a xerogel depot formulation to be placed into an anterior chamber of the eye. Once exposed to eye fluids, the xerogel changes to become a hydrogel, which is hydrolytically degradable and has hydrolytically degradable particles containing therapeutic agents. The device this way provides a controlled release. Polymers used to make the device are – polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PLG), or a copolymer of PLA and PGA.
Combining CD27 Agonists and Immune Checkpoint Inhibition for Immune Stimulation;
Aduro BiotechHoldingss, Europe B.V., Netherlands; U.S. Patent # 12,168,693; December 17, 2024.
CD27 is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF) and it is expressed on the surface of lymphocytes, which enhances T-cell activation, proliferation, etc. In this patent, the conditions are expected to be ameliorated by stimulation of CD27+ immune cells or by inhibition of one or more checkpoint proteins. It provides treatment for cancer by providing an anti-human CD27 agonistic antibody and an immune checkpoint inhibitor. The antibody is comprised of heavy chains CDR1, CDR2, and CDR 3, and light chains CDR 1, CDR,2, and CDR3.
Tetracycline Compositions;
D.C. Griffi th, S.H. Boyer, S.J. Hecker, and M.N. Dudley; Melinta Subsidiary Corp., US; U.S. Patent # 12,161,656; December 10, 2024.
Tetracyclines are broad-spectrum antibiotics effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. Tetracyclines degrade rapidly in an aqueous environment forming less effective and potentially toxic byproducts that can cause conditions like Fanconi syndrome. Higher temperatures and low pH accelerate tetracycline degradation. There is a demand for stable tetracycline formulations that allow for longer admixture and reconstitution times without refrigeration. The invention presents compositions, including pharmaceutical formulations and methods for their preparation. The invention relates to tetracycline compositions, particularly involving minocycline. Certain embodiments incorporate a tetracycline combined with a surplus of divalent or trivalent cations. New formulations offer enhanced stability and solubility.
Magnesium-Containing Oxytocin Formulations and Method of Use;
D. Carson and D.C. Yeomans; Tonix Pharma Ltd., Dublin, Ireland; U.S. Patent # 12,156,897; December 3, 2024.
The patent describes the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprising co-administration of oxytocin peptide and magnesium ions. Oxytocin peptide refers to a substance having biological activity associated with natural oxytocin. The combination has a synergistic effect on reducing social and communication deficits in patients suffering. Oxytocin is a naturally occurring nine-amino acid neuropeptide. Magnesium has been reported to improve brain function and behavior in people with ASD. This drug combination is administered intranasally.
Author Details
Neelam Sharma, MS; Lakshmi Lavanya Kundurthy, BE; and Hemant N. Joshi, PhD, MBA, hemantjoshi.tara@gmail.com
Tara Innovations, LLC. www.tarainnovations.com.
Publication Details
This article appeared in American Pharmaceutical Review:Vol. 28, No. 2March 2025Pages: 62-63
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