This is one of several granted and pending patents that protect the company’s ownership of the 5T4 tumor antigen. The granted patent covers immunotherapy products directed against 5T4 and includes specific claims to the use of viral delivery systems in 5T4-targeted vaccines.
5T4 is a tumor associated antigen that is expressed on a wide range of tumor types. A number of published immunohistochemical studies have demonstrated that there is a high incidence of 5T4 expression on colorectal cancer, renal cell carcinoma and breast cancer, amongst others.
Overall, 5T4 is present on more than 75% of human solid tumors, yet it is not found on any essential organs. This makes 5T4 an ideal target for immunotherapy treatment in a wide range of cancer types.
Commenting on the issued patent, Oxford BioMedica’s chief executive, professor Alan Kingsman, said: “This positions Oxford BioMedica as one of the leading players in the emerging field of cancer immunotherapy. TroVax has potential utility as a treatment for most solids tumors, hence, the potential to be a major commercial opportunity for the company.”