Imugene wins Chinese Linguet patent

Melbourne-based Imugene (ASX:IMU) has been awarded a Chinese patent for its lead buccal drug-delivery technology, Linguet.

The patent covers Linguet-based formulations for bisphosphonic acids and bisphosphonates, collectively a class of drugs that prevent the loss of bone mass. These drugs are used to treat conditions including osteoporosis and multiple myeloma.

Imugene last month won a similar patent in Japan, another key market for drug-delivery products.

The Linguet technology involves developing tablets designed to deliver drugs into the bloodstream when placed inside the cheek or under the tongue.

The company is using the technology to develop a vitamin D supplement designed to deliver a more controlled dose than swallowable tablets, and is now exploring combining this with bisphosphonates to treat bone loss.

“The expansion of our patent portfolio in Japan and China is a significant step in our commercialisation strategy,” Imugene executive director Dr Nick Ede commented.

“Not only does it demonstrate the strength of our novel Linguet technology, but it enables us to explore two lucrative Asian markets ahead of the anticipated regulatory approval of Linguet vitamin D next year.”

Imugene shares were trading 25% higher at $0.01 as of around 2.30 pm on Tuesday.