Last Tuesday, the USPTO issued a patent to Ambrilia Biopharma (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) for a patent to treat advanced metastatic prostate cancer. U.S. Patent No. 7,053,058, issued on May 30th, claims several polypeptides, pharmaceutical compositions, and methods for a specific peptide sequence (PCK3145) and its use to treat prostate cancer. According to the patent, the invention provides chemical compositions and methods “for inhibiting growth of prostatic adenocarcinoma, stomach cancer, breast cancer, endometrial, ovarian or other cancers of epithelial secretion, or benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH).” This patent also claims 63 additional peptide sequences related to PCK3145. According to Ambrilia, PCK3145 “binds to the cell surface laminin receptor and triggers a signaling cascade of events resulting in down-regulation of MMP-9 expression,” an enzyme that breaks down ECM allowing for tumors to spread. Ambrilia has also announced early phase clinical trial data showing the peptide to be non-toxic, and having the ability to lower MMP-9 levels with weekly peptide treatments.

U.S. Patent No. 7,053,058: LINK
Pharmaceutical Business Review News Article: LINK
Ambrilia Biopharma Patent Press Release: LINK