Alteogen announced on the 17th that a material patent for 'ALT-B4', a platform technology that converts intravenous (IV) injections into subcutaneous (SC) formulations, has been registered in the United States.
Previously, only a patent for the manufacturing process of ALT-B4 was registered in the United States, but the registration of this material patent has expanded the scope of patent protection. The patent will be officially registered with the Korean Intellectual Property Office on the 29th and the rights will be maintained until early 2043.
ALT-B4 is a recombinant enzyme protein that decomposes hyaluronic acid, helping the drug penetrate the skin and reach the subcutaneous tissue. Utilizing this technology allows for the conversion of cancer drugs and biopharmaceuticals, which were previously administered only through intravenous injection, into the more convenient subcutaneous injection form, thereby enhancing patient convenience and hospital operational efficiency.
Alteogen expects that the recent patent registration will accelerate collaboration with global pharmaceutical corporations. In fact, the company converted its contract for formulation modification of the immune-oncology drug 'Keytruda' from the American company Merck (MSD) into an exclusive contract and signed a technology transfer agreement with Daiichi Sankyo of Japan in November last year and with AstraZeneca of the United Kingdom in March this year.
A representative from Alteogen noted, "This is the recognition of the novelty and progressiveness of ALT-B4 by the Korean Intellectual Property Office, and by collaborating with global pharmaceutical and biotech corporations, we will continue to provide better treatment options to many patients in the future."