Oncolytics Biotech Inc. (Nasdaq: ONCY) announced on October 12, 2026, that it has secured a new method of use patent covering pelareorep as an immunotherapy for cancer. The patent has been issued in several countries, with the corresponding United States patent expected to issue in the near term.
The company stated that this new patent is part of a broader strategy to extend patent protection for pelareorep into the late 2040s. This initiative builds upon existing manufacturing patent protection, which is currently set to expire in 2044. The new method of use patent aims to protect the therapeutic applications of the drug alongside the proprietary manufacturing processes.
Oncolytics reported that three patent application families are currently pending. These applications address various combination therapies, including the use of pelareorep with immunotherapies and targeted therapies. The company expects to convert one of these pending applications into a U.S. application submitted with a request for Track One prioritized examination this quarter. This application is directed to the use of pelareorep as a therapy that induces immunologic responses. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office's Track One program provides prioritized examination with a goal of reaching a final disposition within approximately 12 months after prioritized status is granted.
In addition to method of use patents, Oncolytics is working with an academic partner to develop a modified form of pelareorep referred to as “next generation” pelareorep. The company expects this work to support the addition of a new composition of matter patent to its portfolio. This patent would provide a separate layer of protection for the modified drug, with the potential for up to 20 years of patent protection measured from the applicable filing date. The company noted that the modified pelareorep is being developed with the expectation that it could provide enhanced efficacy, which will require confirmation through further studies.
