RE: Merck's covid pill - concern over resistance12 Oct 2021 17:31
Very good question Potnak.
Either the patent that was formerly rejected after 3 atempts for 1802 as were classed as similar compound. But then again would have thought that would have been announced.
The patent may well be for crystallisation of a compound. Crystallisation of a compound will offer many benefits, The two main benefits would be maintaining compound structure and solubility. Effectively crystals can be dissolved so we can take up via injection through a solute or through the oral route. Storage times should increase along with temperature and humidity restraints.
additionally and of course financial importance would be the added benefit of patent protection. ie if and when granted the procedure cannot be copied to produce our compounds rendering copies when other patents expire. Effectively start from 2020. I f this proves to be the case then Tim an co have worked a blinder.
Cannot see an additional compound in immuno although in reality the selection of molecules they have can inhibit not only Jak 1 Tyk 2 but also jak2 and Jak 3. No need to worry as guessing that should a compound need to be modified , but prefer to use the word enhanced, these could be added if so required, but would require declaration of new candidate and compound.
Regarding a specific compound. This is interesting and at end of preclinical, is when submission of a candidate is made for trials. Once started here no turning back, i see no reason why they would need a new candidate as was stated by Tim '1802 may work but we think 1801 is better.' I would give my hind teeth to know the difference between 1801 and 1802 as both are Tyk2 and Jak 1 inhibitors.
i would deduce that 1801 is sufficient for Covid treatment as it is. Downside is that the molecule can be made available at a price if we progress through AGILE platform. The financial gain from other targets would be well marked down. hence now time consuming negotiations. They will want as Covid treatment ( big bucks short term at least) but must also pick up remainder of targets Sepsis to MS ( many many times greater long term).
First things first is that 1801 need be pot through stage 1 trials. I f all ok, and am 80% certain myself that it will be, then world becomes our oyster.
Regards