Hoth Therapeutics, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOTH) announced it has secured Japan Country Patent No. 7677628 for its HT-KIT platform, marking a significant milestone in the clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company's intellectual property portfolio. The patent, officially granted by the Japan Patent Office on May 7, 2025, provides exclusive protection until August 27, 2039.
Novel Approach to Mast Cell Targeting
The granted patent, titled "Targeting KIT with Splice Switching Oligonucleotides to Induce Apoptosis of Mast Cells," protects Hoth's innovative approach of using splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs) to selectively disrupt KIT gene expression in mast cells. These cells are implicated in conditions ranging from chronic hives to rare cancers, representing a significant therapeutic opportunity.
"Securing intellectual property protection in Japan—a globally significant pharmaceutical market—underscores the global value of HT-KIT," said Robb Knie, CEO of Hoth Therapeutics. "We see strategic licensing potential across Asia as we move this asset forward."
Therapeutic Applications and Market Positioning
The HT-KIT platform is positioned to address mast cell-driven inflammatory and oncologic conditions, with particular focus on orphan indications that may qualify for expedited regulatory pathways. The technology's selective targeting mechanism offers potential advantages in treating conditions where mast cell dysfunction plays a central role.
The patent protection extends through 2039, ensuring long-term commercial exclusivity for Hoth's novel therapeutic approach. This extended protection period provides the company with substantial time to develop and commercialize the platform across multiple indications.
Strategic Development Plans
HT-KIT represents one of several novel platforms under development at Hoth Therapeutics. The company continues to seek strategic global partners, particularly in Asia, for co-development and commercialization opportunities. The Japanese patent grant strengthens the company's position in pursuing these partnerships in the Asian pharmaceutical market.
The clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focuses on developing innovative treatments with the goal of improving patient quality of life, utilizing a patient-centric approach that involves collaboration with scientists, clinicians, and key opinion leaders to investigate therapeutics with breakthrough potential.
