Greenland Mines Ltd (NASDAQ: GRML) announced that IP Australia has granted Australian Patent No. 2023252508, covering gene therapy technology exclusively licensed by the company’s Biotech Division. The patent encompasses the expression of the human Klotho protein for treating neuromuscular diseases, including constructs, neuronal and induced pluripotent stem cells, and viral and non-viral delivery systems. This milestone strengthens the intellectual property supporting Greenland Mines’ Klotho-based therapeutic platform and advances its KLTO-202 program targeting amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and other neuromuscular disorders.
The issuance of this patent is significant for Greenland Mines as it expands the company’s IP protection in a key jurisdiction. Australia has a robust pharmaceutical market and is a recognized hub for clinical research. The patent covers core aspects of the Klotho gene therapy platform, which could be pivotal in developing treatments for devastating diseases like ALS. According to the press release, the patent includes claims that protect the company’s proprietary gene therapy constructs and delivery methods, providing a competitive edge in the biotechnology sector.
Greenland Mines operates through two divisions: Mining and Biotech. The Mining division focuses on the exploration and development of the Skaergaard Project in southeast Greenland and, subject to closing of a previously announced transaction, the Sarfartoq neodymium-praseodymium (Nd-Pr) rare earths project in southwest Greenland. The Biotech division is advancing the Klotho gene therapy platform, with the KLTO-202 program as its primary indication for ALS. The company’s strategy centers on building a multi-asset platform with exposure to rare earth magnet materials, precious metals, and selected midstream processing opportunities, while advancing its broader North Atlantic Critical Metals Corridor vision linking Greenland resources with allied downstream jurisdictions and industrial infrastructure.
The patent grant underscores the potential of the Klotho protein in treating neuromuscular diseases. Klotho is known for its anti-aging properties and neuroprotective effects, making it a promising target for gene therapy. By securing patent protection in Australia, Greenland Mines can pursue collaborations and licensing agreements in the region, potentially accelerating the development of KLTO-202. The company noted that the patent further supports development of its ALS program, which addresses a significant unmet medical need. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease with limited treatment options, and gene therapy approaches like Klotho expression could offer new hope for patients.
For more information about Greenland Mines, visit the company’s newsroom at https://nnw.fm/GRML. The full press release is available at https://nnw.fm/PVbbH.
