On January 8, 2024 Pasithea Therapeutics Corp. (NASDAQ: KTTA) ("Pasithea" or the "Company"), a clinical stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery, research, and development of innovative treatments for Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders, reported the invention of a crystalline form of PAS-004 which is captured in polymorph and stereoisomer patent filings that when issued we believe will extend patent protection to at least 2045 (Press release, Pasithea Therapeutics, JAN 8, 2024, View Source [SID1234640980]).
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Chief Development Officer Dr. Graeme Currie stated, "Through the invention of the crystal structure for PAS-004 and subsequent patent filings, we are pleased to extend and strengthen the PAS-004 patent portfolio which we believe extends current protection from 2032 to at least 2045. We worked closely with Jones Day, a top global law firm with a premier IP biotech practice, to reach this important milestone."
Chief Executive Officer Dr. Tiago Reis Marques added, "Through additional chemistry, manufacturing, and controls (CMC) development we believe that we continue to increase the value of PAS-004. We are pleased that our upcoming phase 1 dose escalation trial will utilize the newly invented crystalline drug substance."
About PAS-004
PAS-004 is a small molecule allosteric inhibitor of MEK 1/2, which are dual-specificity protein kinases, in the MAPK signaling pathway. The MAPK pathway has been implicated in a variety of diseases, as it functions to drive cell proliferation, differentiation, survival and a variety of other cellular functions that, when abnormally activated, are critical for the formation and progression of tumors, fibrosis and other diseases. MEK inhibitors block phosphorylation (activation) of extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK). Blocking the phosphorylation of ERK can lead to cell death and inhibition of tumor growth. Existing FDA approved MEK inhibitors are marketed for a range of diseases, including certain cancers and neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). We believe these MEK inhibitors suffer from certain limitations, including known toxicities. Unlike current FDA approved MEK inhibitors, PAS-004 is macrocyclic, which we believe may lead to improved pharmacokinetic and safety (tolerability) profiles. Cyclization offers rigidity for stronger binding with drug target receptors. PAS-004 was designed to provide a longer half-life with what we believe is a better therapeutic window. Further, we believe the potency and safety profile that PAS-004 has demonstrated in preclinical studies may also lead to stronger and more durable response rates and efficacy, as well as better dosing schedules. PAS-004 has been tested in a range of mouse models of various diseases and has completed preclinical testing and animal toxicology studies. Additionally, PAS-004 has received orphan-drug designation from the FDA for the treatment of NF1.