On April 17, 2025 Hoth Therapeutics, Inc.(NASDAQ: HOTH), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing next-generation RNA-targeted precision therapies, reported it has been granted a key patent by the Japan Patent Office (JPO), expanding its global intellectual property portfolio in RNA-based cancer therapeutics (Press release, Hoth Therapeutics, APR 17, 2025, View Source;expands-global-ip-in-precision-oncology-platform-302431170.html [SID1234651977]).

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The newly issued patent secures broad claims covering antisense oligomers that target the KIT gene — a clinically validated oncogene associated with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), leukemia, mastocytosis, and other cancers. These oligomers are designed to alter pre-mRNA splicing or reduce KIT protein expression, offering a highly targeted therapeutic mechanism.

"This patent significantly strengthens Hoth’s position in the RNA therapeutics space and marks a major milestone in our global strategy," said Robb Knie, CEO of Hoth Therapeutics. "Targeting the KIT pathway with antisense technology represents a precision-driven approach that holds immense potential in oncology and beyond. This grant provides strong validation and global momentum as we continue advancing our RNA platform toward the clinic."

The patent includes coverage for:

Antisense RNA molecules comprising 10–50 nucleotides targeting KIT pre-mRNA splicing sequences
Morpholino and chemically modified antisense variants
Pharmaceutical compositions and expression vectors
Applications in both human and veterinary medicine
Why It Matters:
The KIT gene is implicated in aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers. By leveraging antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) to modulate KIT expression, Hoth is pioneering a novel RNA-based strategy that could bypass traditional small molecule resistance mechanisms. With this patent, Hoth now holds exclusive rights to develop, partner, and commercialize ASO-based therapies targeting KIT — a critical asset in the precision oncology space.

Key Highlights:

Patent grant accelerates Hoth’s global IP expansion in RNA-targeted therapies
Targets validated oncogene KIT, widely implicated in cancer progression and resistance
Supports pipeline momentum in oncology, immunology, and rare diseases
Creates licensing and partnership opportunities in high-growth therapeutic areas