Dr. Mathias Magoola, Founder and Managing Director of Dei BioPharma Ltd, has achieved a significant milestone in Uganda's scientific advancement by securing a United States patent for a novel cancer treatment. The patent, officially granted and published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on February 6, 2025, represents a potential breakthrough in cancer therapy using gene-editing technology.
During a meeting at State House, Entebbe, Dr. Magoola briefed President Yoweri Museveni on the successful patent and his company's ongoing efforts to manufacture life-saving drugs and vaccines. President Museveni commended the achievement and pledged full government support for the company's mission.
Revolutionary Cancer Treatment Approach
The patented treatment utilizes guided RNA attached to the Cas9 protein to target and destroy mutated genes responsible for cancer. Unlike existing FDA-approved gene-editing therapies, this innovation is specifically designed to treat all types and stages of cancer without harming healthy cells.
"This invention presents the first treatment of cancer using a guided RNA-Cas9 complex that disrupts mutated genes and prevents them from repairing, thereby killing the cancerous cells," Dr. Magoola explained during the meeting.
The precision of this approach eliminates the severe side effects commonly associated with conventional cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, antibody therapy, and radiation. According to Dr. Magoola, all manufacturing details for the product are complete, and clinical trials are expected to begin before the end of the year.
Global Impact and Production Plans
With projections indicating a global cancer burden of 35 million cases annually by 2030, this treatment offers significant hope, particularly for patients in developing countries. The therapy is designed to be both simple and affordable, addressing a potential $300 billion market.
"This invention is not just a scientific breakthrough, it is a humanitarian contribution aimed at eradicating cancer globally," Dr. Magoola stated.
The treatment will be produced at Dei BioPharma's upcoming multi-billion-dollar vaccine and drug manufacturing facility in Matugga, near Kampala. However, scaling production presents infrastructure challenges, with Dr. Magoola requesting 8 megawatts of electricity from the government to power the company's 12 specialized biotech facilities.
Government Support and Regulatory Framework
President Museveni emphasized the urgency of passing the National Drug and Health Products Act, a crucial legislative step that would enable Uganda's National Drug Authority (NDA) to meet World Health Organization (WHO) Maturity Level 3 accreditation. This benchmark is required for the NDA to license and regulate locally manufactured vaccines for global distribution.
"We will ensure that the National Drug Act is expedited so that your vaccines and medicines can compete globally. Uganda should be part of the future of science," President Museveni said.
Beyond Cancer: Expanding Research Portfolio
Dei BioPharma's innovation extends beyond cancer treatment. Dr. Magoola informed President Museveni that his company has developed medical solutions targeting HIV and sickle cell disease as well. The company has reportedly filed over 100 patents in the U.S. for treatments ranging from HIV, Alzheimer's, Malaria, to diabetes and tuberculosis.
Among Dei BioPharma's other recent achievements is a universal vaccine for Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD). Accepted by the USPTO on January 7, 2025, the vaccine is expected to save the Ugandan government billions in imports and significantly reduce outbreaks affecting livestock.
Future Prospects for Uganda's Biotech Industry
These developments mark a promising shift in Uganda's biotechnology landscape, potentially positioning the country as a future hub for high-impact medical research and pharmaceutical innovation in Africa and beyond.
Experts note that for Dei BioPharma to succeed globally, government support must include policy implementation, energy investment, and sustained financial backing to empower local scientists to innovate at scale.
The meeting at State House was also attended by Dr. Monica Musenero, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation; Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, the Attorney General; Mr. Ramathan Ggoobi, the Permanent Secretary and Secretary to the Treasury at the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; and Mr. Nelson Tugume, the Chief Executive Officer of Inspire Africa Group, among others.
