Drug development for cryptococcosis treatment: what can patents tell us?



Document title: Drug development for cryptococcosis treatment: what can patents tell us?
Journal: Memorias do Instituto Oswaldo Cruz
Database: PERIÓDICA
System number: 000433427
ISSN: 0074-0276
Authors: 1
2
Institutions: 1Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Nacional de Ciencia e Tecnologia de Gestao da Inovacao em Doencas Negligenciadas, Rio de Janeiro. Brasil
2Fundacao Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Rene Rachou, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais. Brasil
Year:
Volumen: 114
Country: Brasil
Language: Inglés
Document type: Artículo
Approach: Analítico, descriptivo
English abstract BACKGROUND Cryptococcosis is one of the most devastating fungal infections in humans. Despite the disease’s clinical importance, current therapy is based on limited antifungals that are either toxic, inefficient, unavailable worldwide, or that quickly lead to resistance. OBJECTIVES The goal of this study was to provide insight into the future of cryptococcosis treatment by describing the patent scenario in this field. METHODS We identified and analysed patent documents revealing compounds with anti-cryptococcal activity supported by experimental evidence. FINDINGS Patenting in this field has been historically low, with an overall tendency of increase since 2012. Most applications are single filings, suggesting that they do not encompass strategic inventions requiring broad protection. Research and development essentially took place in China and the United States, which also represent the main countries of protection. Both academic and corporate institutions contributed to patenting in this field. Universities are the leading actors, with the highest patent family counts. CONCLUSION The low number of patents in this field indicates that efforts to mitigate the unmet needs for cryptococcosis treatment remain insufficient. Without investment to drive research and innovation, patients will likely continue to face inadequate assistance. Given the current scenario characterised by poor funding and low interest for technological development, drug repurposing may be the best alternative for cryptococcosis treatment
Disciplines: Medicina,
Química
Keyword: Química farmacéutica,
Criptococosis,
Meningitis criptocócica,
Desarrollo de fármacos
Keyword: Medicinal chemistry,
Cryptococcosis,
Cryptococcal meningitis,
Drug development
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