Delaware Patent of the Month – August 2023
The researchers in the field of cancer research are always striving to find better ways to treat the disease. One interesting area of study involves a group of proteins called SWI/SNF complexes. These proteins play a crucial role in how our cells work by controlling access to our DNA.
Surprisingly, mutations in these proteins are found in about 20% of all human cancers. Certain types of cancer, like rhabdoid tumors, ovarian cancer, lung cancer, and melanoma, have a higher frequency of these mutations.
Researchers have focused on two proteins called SMARCA2 and SMARCA4, which are vital for the function of SWI/SNF complexes. In many cancers, SMARCA4 is mutated. This makes the SMARCA2 protein even more important for cancer cell growth and survival.
Previous studies tried to slow down cancer growth by reducing the amount of SMARCA2 in mutated cancer cells. While this worked in theory, it was challenging to achieve in practice with standard methods. That’s where Prelude Therapeutics, Inc. comes in.
Prelude Therapeutics has developed new compounds (like PTM-ULM (I)) that show promise in blocking the function of SMARCA2 and/or SMARCA4. Instead of just trying to reduce the protein levels, these compounds target the proteins for degradation, a bit like tagging them for recycling. Their SMARCA2 IV treatment is currently in Phase 1 testing while their oral treatment is still in discovery.
This approach could be a game-changer because it allows for more specific and effective targeting of cancer cells with SMARCA4 mutations. By interfering with these crucial proteins, Prelude Therapeutics aims to develop new and improved treatments for certain types of cancer.
This research represents an exciting step forward in the fight against cancer, offering hope for better and more targeted therapies in the future. As scientists continue to explore these compounds, we look forward to seeing how they could make a difference for cancer patients in the long run.
Are you developing new technology for an existing application? Did you know your development work could be eligible for the R&D Tax Credit and you can receive up to 14% back on your expenses? Even if your development isn’t successful your work may still qualify for R&D credits (i.e. you don’t need to have a patent to qualify). To find out more, please contact a Swanson Reed R&D Specialist today or check out our free online eligibility test.
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