AB Science receives Chinese patent protecting masitinib in the treatment of Covid-19 until 2041, adding one more indication with long term intellectual property protection

Core Viewpoint - AB Science has received a Chinese patent for the use of its lead compound masitinib in treating COVID-19, providing intellectual property protection until April 2041 [1][3]. Group 1: Patent and Intellectual Property - The Chinese Patent Office issued a patent for methods of treating SARS-CoV-2 infection with masitinib, ensuring protection until April 2041 [1]. - This patent is based on preclinical data published in the journal Science, demonstrating masitinib's efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 variants [3]. Group 2: Research and Collaboration - AB Science has entered into a collaborative research agreement with the University of Chicago to explore the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 using masitinib and other proprietary drugs [2]. - The agreement includes a royalty-bearing license for any discoveries made, with AB Science paying 1% of net sales on the first registered product and 0.3% on further registered products to the University of Chicago [2]. Group 3: Clinical Results - Positive results from a phase 2 study of masitinib in COVID-19 were recently communicated, confirming its anti-inflammatory activity and potential as a broad antiviral agent [4]. - Professor Olivier Hermine highlighted masitinib's capacity to control activated macrophages and mast cells involved in COVID-19, suggesting its evaluation in future pandemics [4]. Group 4: Company Overview - AB Science, founded in 2001, specializes in the research, development, and commercialization of protein kinase inhibitors targeting diseases with high unmet medical needs [6]. - The company is headquartered in Paris, France, and is listed on Euronext Paris under the ticker AB [7].