The patent covers the use of sd-rxRNAs targeting CTGF, including RXI-109, for the treatment of fibrotic disorders. US patent number 8,664,189, will expire in 2029. The notice of allowance was released on 14 January 2014 for this patent.
"This is an important step in solidifying our patent portfolio which greatly enhances the value proposition of RXi Pharmaceuticals," said Dr. Geert Cauwenbergh, President and CEO of RXi Pharmaceuticals. He added that, "This issued patent deepens our ability to broadly protect our proprietary and novel technology platform, which includes our anti-fibrotic compounds, reinforcing the potential for future commercial and business development opportunities."
RXi Pharmaceuticals’ first clinical program involves RXI-109, a self-delivering RNAi compound (sd-rxRNA) developed for the reduction of dermal scarring. RXI-109 is designed to reduce the expression of CTGF, a critical regulator of biological pathways involved in fibrosis, including scar formation in the skin.
The first clinical trials with RXI-109 showed excellent safety and tolerability with ascending single and multiple doses, as well as dose dependent effects on the connective tissue growth factor protein and on the mRNA that controls production of this protein.
RXi’s sd-rxRNA oligonucleotides are designed for therapeutic use and have drug-like properties, such as high potency, target specificity, serum stability, reduced immune response activation, and efficient cellular uptake.
These hybrid oligonucleotide molecules combine the beneficial properties of conventional RNAi and antisense technologies. This allows sd-rxRNAs to achieve efficient cellular uptake and potent, long-lasting intracellular activity.