PHILADELPHIA, PA — EpiVario, Inc. has announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office has granted them US Patent No. 12,077,527, while the Japan Patent Office has issued a corresponding patent, JP7423068B2. These patents cover small molecule inhibitors of acetyl co-A synthetase 2 (ACSS2) and their use in treating memory-related conditions, including various forms of addiction such as those involving alcohol, tobacco, cocaine, and opioids. The patents were co-invented by EpiVario co-founders Dr. Philipp Mews and Dr. Shelley Berger and have been exclusively licensed worldwide to EpiVario from the University of Pennsylvania.
EpiVario is focusing its efforts on developing a portfolio of ACSS2 inhibitors aimed at treating substance use disorders (SUDs), including opioid use disorder (OUD) and cocaine use disorder (CUD). Substance use disorder is characterized by the compulsive use of drugs despite severe consequences. ACSS2 inhibitors work by leveraging an epigenetic mechanism to disrupt the formation of drug-craving memories. This is achieved by modulating neuronal plasticity, which weakens the memories triggered by environmental cues that lead to cravings. The enzyme ACSS2 is crucial in creating acetyl-CoA, which is essential for memory formation related to drug cravings. By interfering with this process, EpiVario aims to provide an acute therapeutic intervention that reduces cravings and aids in preventing relapse.
“This patent marks a significant milestone for both our company and our partners,” stated Thomas Kim, President & CEO of EpiVario. “As we continue to progress in the development of a treatment for SUD, these patents form a critical part of our intellectual property strategy, positioning us to deliver significant value to our patients and stakeholders.”
Philipp Mews, PhD, Co-Founder of EpiVario and Assistant Professor at Boston University, emphasized the importance of these patents, saying, “Securing these patents is a pivotal moment in our mission to revolutionize treatment for substance use disorders. By focusing on the epigenetic processes that solidify drug-related memories, we are developing a therapeutic approach that directly intervenes at the root of addiction. This milestone brings us closer to delivering a transformative solution that not only curbs cravings but also empowers patients to achieve lasting recovery and a brighter future.”
These developments underline EpiVario’s commitment to advancing treatments that address the underlying causes of addiction, offering hope for improved patient outcomes and long-term recovery.
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