Roquefort Therapeutics PLC on Monday said it has filed an international phase PCT patent for its anti-cancer mRNA and RNA oligonucleotide therapies.

The London-based biotechnology company focused on developing medicines for hard-to-treat cancers said the PCT patent, which is governed by the World Intellectual Property Organisation, will provide patent protection for its invention in more than 155 countries.

The firm said the filing will enhance its intellectual property portfolio, and cement its leadership in the use of mRNA and RNA oligonucleotides targeting midkine proteins.

Roquefort said its anti-cancer RNA and mRNA therapies are currently undergoing in vitro and in vivo studies at the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales.

Chief Executive Ajan Reginald said: ‘mRNA technology promises to revolutionize future treatments for cancer and as such we are delighted that we are part of this cutting-edge field to treat the hardest-to-treat cancers. Both the mRNA and RNA oligonucleotides attack the novel Midkine target, in which the company are pioneers. Midkine expression is highly associated with cancer progression and poor survival.

‘We believe Midkine will become a highly attractive, validated target and we will be uniquely positioned with a portfolio of patented antibody, mRNA and RNA oligonucleotide medicines. Therefore our focus is continue to deliver on [research & development] and commercial milestones that highlight the significant potential of Midkine as a novel cancer target.’

Roquefort shares rose 0.2% to 8.27 pence each on Monday morning in London.

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