Oxygen Biotherapeutics (NASDAQ:OXBT) has been issued a patent protecting applications of its technology in treating pruritis, or skin itching.
Morrisville-based Oxygen Bio has developed technology that promotes the delivery of oxygen to damaged tissue. The company completed a clinical study in May 2012 in which its technology showed efficacy in relieving pruritis induced by histamines. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in 30 healthy male and female volunteers aged showed that “a profound drop in itch sensation” when the company’s topical treatment was applied.
Oxygen Bio’s lead therapeutic candidate, Oxycyte, is in mid-stage clinical trials for traumatic brain injury. A skin product would add to the company’s drug pipeline. But it’s not the first time Oxygen Bio has set its sights on the skin market. The company has already commercialized an over-the-counter anti-aging line of cosmetic products under the name Dermacyte. Dermacyte is has been out-licensed to Valor Cosmetics of Switzerland.
Michael Jebsen, interim CEO and CFO of Oxygen Bio, said in a statement that the critical indication remain the company’s focus. But the company is also seeking to out-license its technology for non-core indications, including dermatology.
Oxygen Bio now owns or in-licenses 9 issued patents for medical and dermatological conditions with an average remaining life of approximately 18 years.
