Poly(I:C) Polyplex Compositions for Stability and Cellular Uptake

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing formulations of polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid (poly(I:C)) molecules face challenges with stability, homogeneity, unpredictable pharmacokinetics, and limited anti-tumoral effects, necessitating frequent administration and poor cellular uptake, which hinder their clinical development and compliance with regulatory requirements.

Innovation Solution

Development of a composition comprising particles with specific size, zeta potential, and molecular weight ratios of poly(I:C) and polyalkyleneimine, optimized for stability and uniformity, allowing for controlled and effective cancer treatment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If naked poly(I:C) molecules are used, then the formulation is simple, but stability and homogeneity are poor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveformulation complexityVSAvoidpoly(I:C) stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines poly(I:C) with cationic polymers (such as polyethyleneimine or chitosan) to form composite polyplex particles. This composite structure protects the poly(I:C) from degradation by RNases, improves stability in biological environments, and enhances cellular uptake while maintaining controlled release properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

2Ease of operation

If naked poly(I:C) molecules are used, then administration is simple, but pharmacokinetics are unpredictable

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadministration easeVSAvoidpharmacokinetics predictability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent modifies the physical and chemical parameters of poly(I:C) by forming polyplexes with cationic polymers. This changes the size, charge, and surface properties of the formulation, leading to predictable pharmacokinetics including extended circulation time, improved tumor accumulation via EPR effect, and controlled release profiles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If naked poly(I:C) molecules are used, then cellular uptake is poor, but frequent administration is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetreatment efficiencyVSAvoidadministration frequency
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The cationic polymer acts as an intermediary carrier that facilitates cellular uptake of poly(I:C). The positively charged polymer interacts with negatively charged cell membranes, enabling endocytosis. The polyplex structure also protects poly(I:C) from cytosolic RNases, extending its therapeutic action and reducing administration frequency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Stability of the object's composition

If poly(I:C) is formulated with carrier polymers, then stability improves, but formulation complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepoly(I:C) stabilityVSAvoidformulation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cationic polymers (polyethyleneimine, chitosan) possess inherent properties that enable self-assembly with poly(I:C) through electrostatic interactions. This self-assembling process forms stable polyplex particles without requiring complex formulation procedures, purification steps, or specialized equipment, thus improving stability while keeping the formulation relatively simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12383575B2Polyinosinic—polycytidylic acid compositions
Publication Date: 2025.08.12 HIGHLIGHT THERAPEUTICS SL
  • US12383575B2 patent drawing
  • US12383575B2 patent drawing
  • US12383575B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention relates to compositions comprising polyinosinic (poly(I))-polycytidylic acid poly(C) molecules, or a salt and/or solvate thereof, comprising double-stranded polyribonucleotides. The present invention further relates to compositions wherein the disclosed respective poly(I) and poly(C) single-stranded molecules are annealed to thereby form double-stranded poly(I:C) molecules.