Race Oncology Secures 20-Year Patent Edge with Bisantrene Breakthrough
Race Oncology has filed pivotal patents on the active (E,E)-bisantrene isomer, potentially extending its drug exclusivity by two decades, while advancing its Phase 1 clinical trial and maintaining a strong cash position.
- Three new patents filed on active (E,E)-bisantrene isomer
- Phase 1 trial of RC220 progresses with two patients treated safely
- Expansion of clinical trial sites in Hong Kong and South Korea
- Cash reserves at $11.27 million with additional funds from option conversions
- Discovery of G-quadruplex DNA/RNA binding mechanism for bisantrene
Intellectual Property Breakthrough
Race Oncology has announced a significant intellectual property milestone with the filing of three patents covering the active (E,E)-isomer of bisantrene, a small molecule anticancer agent. This discovery, which reveals that bisantrene exists as three photoisomers that rapidly interconvert under visible light, allows Race to seek composition of matter protection for 20 years on the active isomer. This effectively resets the patent clock on a drug with nearly five decades of history, potentially securing exclusive commercial rights well into the future.
Clinical Trial Progress and Expansion
Race’s Phase 1 clinical trial of RC220 (also known as RAC-010), which combines bisantrene with the chemotherapy agent doxorubicin, has advanced with two patients safely treated as of the quarter’s end. The trial, focused on cardioprotection and anticancer efficacy, has expanded its footprint with ethics and regulatory approvals obtained for multiple sites in Hong Kong and South Korea. Patient recruitment is expected to accelerate in the coming quarter with five additional sites activated, including the Queen Mary Hospital in Hong Kong.
Financial Position and Capital Management
Race Oncology reported a disciplined approach to capital management, ending the quarter with $11.27 million in cash and equivalents. Early option conversions by shareholders have bolstered the company’s funding, raising an additional $0.6 million during the quarter and $3.6 million post-quarter. With over 78% of expenditure directed toward research and development and drug manufacturing, Race is well positioned to fund its current activities through calendar year 2026.
Scientific Insights and Commercial Implications
Post-quarter announcements revealed that the anticancer activity of (E,E)-bisantrene operates through binding to G-quadruplex DNA and RNA structures. This mechanism reduces the activity of critical cancer growth regulators such as MYC and telomerase, indirectly inhibits topoisomerase 2, and modulates RNA methylation. Understanding this novel mode of action not only differentiates bisantrene from traditional chemotherapies like doxorubicin but also enhances its clinical and commercial appeal.
Outlook and Industry Engagement
Race Oncology continues to engage actively with investors and industry peers, highlighted by recent presentations at major biotech summits and oncology congresses. The company is also exploring partnerships and licensing opportunities to accelerate global access to RC220. CEO Dr. Daniel Tillett praised the scientific team’s efforts and the commitment of trial participants, underscoring the company’s mission to deliver safer, more effective cancer treatments.
Bottom Line?
Race Oncology’s patent filings and clinical progress position it for a pivotal year ahead, but market watchers will keenly await trial outcomes and patent approvals.
Questions in the middle?
- Will the new patents on (E,E)-bisantrene be granted without opposition, securing full 20-year protection?
- How quickly can patient recruitment ramp up across the expanded trial sites in Asia?
- What partnerships or licensing deals might Race Oncology announce to commercialize RC220 globally?
