Singapore: Australian drug delivery technology company Imugene has received key Chinese patent application for the company's novel drug delivery technology Linguet.

The Chinese application provides protection around Linguet's formulations and other specific excipients for a class of drugs that prevent the loss of bone mass, known as bisphosphonic acids and bisphosphonates, which are used to treat conditions such as osteoporosis and multiple myeloma.

Linguet is now protected in two key markets, with the same patent formulation allowed in Japan last month. Imugene uses its proprietary drug delivery technology to improve the efficacy and safety of a diverse number of existing prescription and over the counter medicines. Its platform technology, known as Linguet, enables the active ingredient of drugs to be absorbed straight into the bloodstream when placed inside the cheek (via the buccal mucosa) or under the tongue (sublingual).

"The expansion of our patent portfolio in Japan and China is a significant step in our commercialisation strategy. Not only does it demonstrate the strength of our novel Linguet technology, but it enables us to explore two lucrative Asian markets ahead of the anticipated regulatory approval of Linguet Vitamin D next year," said Dr Nick Ede, executive director, Imugene.

Vitamin D deficiency is associated with a wide range of conditions including osteoporosis, certain forms of cancer, pre-diabetes, and cardiovascular health.
Imugene's novel rapid Linguet form of Vitamin D has now completed feasibility testing and formulation development. The company expects to file for regulatory approval in the UK and license the product to a third party in 2014.