“The multiple oppositions filed against Cantargia’s patent portfolio is a testament to our leading position in the field of IL1RAP-targeting antibody-based therapies, and the significant interest in future commercial activities using such therapies. We are pleased with the outcome of the process as this patent provides further protection for nadunolimab and its variants,” said Göran Forsberg, CEO of Cantargia.

In late 2021, Cantargia reported that oppositions had been filed by third parties against one of its European patents, EP3293202. This patent encompassed IL1RAP-targeting antibodies with functional properties similar to nadunolimab, including binding site, affinity, and capability to internalize into cancer cells.

In response to the oppositions, and to align EP3293202 with EPO guidelines on antibody inventions revised during 2021, Cantargia voluntarily limited the patent claims such that the amino acid sequences of the claimed antibodies are also defined, with a potential variability of up to 10%. Following the oral proceedings, the Opposition Division ruled that EP3293202 would be maintained with this new claim scope, which encompasses nadunolimab as well as a broad range of modified variants of nadunolimab with similar functional properties. It should be noted that the decision by the Opposition Division may be appealed. EP3293202 is valid until at least 2035.

Cantargia has extensive patent protection for IL1RAP-targeting antibodies and their use in therapy and diagnostics of cancer, including leukemias and solid tumors. Cantargia’s patent portfolio includes over 100 patents globally, granted in key commercial territories such as the US, Europe, Japan and China.

Multiple previous oppositions against Cantargia’s patent portfolio have been unsuccessful and Cantargia has managed to maintain its protection for IL1RAP-targeting therapy with unchanged claim scope.