Race Oncology Ltd (ASX:RAC, OTC:RAONF) earlier this week announced it has submitted three new patent applications following a breakthrough in the chemistry of its lead drug, (E,E)-bisantrene. Dr Daniel Tillett joined Proactive to explain.
Highlights
- Race Oncology has filed three new patent applications related to its cancer drug, (E,E)-bisantrene.
- The original formulation was a mixture of three isomers, which could convert between each other when exposed to light.
- Race has isolated the active isomer (E,E)-bisantrene, delivering more consistent patient outcomes.
- This breakthrough enables "composition of matter" IP protection — the strongest form of patent protection.
- Light exposure caused variability in drug effectiveness and potential side effects in past trials.
- The discovery allows Race to resume using the original drug formulation, which is already eligible for a phase three trial in AML.
- Accelerated patent examination is underway, potentially supporting commercial negotiations.
- Dr Tillett said this development fundamentally changes the company’s outlook and commercial opportunity.
- More trial updates and new scientific disclosures are expected before the AGM.
- A presentation on the drug’s cardioprotective mechanism is scheduled for October in Germany.
Major bisantrene breakthrough
The original version of bisantrene — developed in the 1980s — was a mixture of three isomers that could interconvert when exposed to light. It highlighted that this variability led to inconsistent dosing and potentially reduced efficacy in earlier trials.
Race told investors it had now isolated the active isomer and developed a pure version of the drug. The company said this offered the strongest form of patent protection — composition of matter — and allowed for more consistent patient outcomes.
Increased clinical and commercial potential
The discovery also enables Race to revisit the original formulation, which it noted is already eligible for a phase three trial in acute myeloid leukaemia (AML). The company said this repositioning significantly increases its clinical and commercial potential.
It has requested accelerated examination of the new patents. Race stated that earlier clarity on patent claims would support discussions with potential partners or acquirers.
The company plans to provide further updates ahead of its AGM, including new data from trials and scientific presentations. Dr Daniel Tillett is expected to present on the cardioprotective mechanism of action in Germany later this year.