InteRNA Technologies BV has received the Unites States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) notice of allowance on a patent application covering miRNA sequences, identified through deep sequencing of several different mouse, monkey and human samples, including different tumour samples.

The allowable product claims protect miRNA-3157, homologues, precursors and mimics thereof. In a second pending patent application, miRNA-3157, homologues, precursors and mimics thereof are claimed as a therapy against melanoma.

A mimic of miRNA-3157 is entering preclinical development and represents InteRNA’s lead product in its B-Raf/melanoma programme.

"This issuance of the USPTO confirms our unique approach to identification and validation of miRNAs as drug targets and further development towards the clinic", said Roel Schaapveld, CEO of InteRNA Technologies. "It further subscribes our patent strategy and greatly strengthens our intellectual property position on miRNA drug candidates."

The latest data on miRNA-3157 as drug candidate for the treatment of human melanoma will be presented at the Society for Melanoma Research 2012 Congress, November 8-11 in Hollywood, California, USA.

InteRNA Technologies B.V. is a drug discovery and development company engaged in the development of microRNA(miRNA)-based therapeutics for oncology.