- Invion’s licensed PhotosoftTM technology receives patent protection until 2033
- PhotosoftTM targeted as a therapy for a range of cancers including ovarian, lung, skin and prostate cancer
Melbourne, Australia, 10 September 2018: ASX-listed life sciences company Invion Limited (ASX:IVX) announces the grant in Australia of the patent for chlorin e4 sodium, a new generation photodynamic therapy over which Invion has exclusive commercialisation rights in Australia and New Zealand.
Chlorin e4 sodium is a photosensitising agent used in photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT uses non-toxic photosensitisers and visible light in combination with oxygen to produce cytotoxic-reactive oxygen to kill malignant cells, shut down tumours and stimulate the immune system. In contrast to surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy that are largely immunosuppressant, Invion’s early clinical data demonstrates a positive whole body immune response.
PhotosoftTM is the trademark for chlorin e4 sodium, for which The Cho Group, a Hong Kong based group that has successfully commercialised a number of advanced technologies, has been granted a patent by IP Australia. Patent number 2013357030, titled “Chlorin derivative useful in photodynamic therapy and diagnosis” will be in force until 2033.
Invion has been appointed by The Cho Group to lead the global clinical development of the PhotosoftTM technology as a cancer therapy.
Invion chief executive Dr Greg Collier said the patent provides protection for the PhotosoftTM intellectual property and supports Invion’s program to manufacture a number of new topical and intravenous formulations of PhotosoftTM for the treatment of all cancers, including lung, prostate, ovarian and skin cancer.
“As there is an ongoing need for better photosensitisers, Invion’s technology uses its patented photosentiser combined with a laser light activation in the near infrared (NIR) peaks of absorption to achieve a deeper tissue penetration that targets increased treatment efficacy. The new topical and intravenous PhotosoftTM formulations are being designed to address the limitations of prior PDT therapies, and also providing a positive whole-body immune response treatment for patients,” Dr Collier said.
Business Update
The current calendar year 2018 period has been defined by the Company’s strong progress in line with Invion’s strategy to develop and commercialise the licensed PhotosoftTM technology, with activities directed towards human clinical trials ramping up from Q1 2019.
