Kiora Pharmaceuticals Secures U.S. Patent for KIO-104 in Ocular Inflammatory Diseases

Kiora Pharmaceuticals has announced the issuance of U.S. Patent No. 12,364,680 for its investigational therapy KIO-104, a small molecule being developed for the treatment of a broad spectrum of ocular inflammatory diseases. The patent enhances Kiora's intellectual property portfolio by protecting the proprietary structure, delivery methods, formulations, dosing schedules, excipients, and therapeutic applications of KIO-104.

Therapeutic Applications Across Multiple Ocular Conditions

KIO-104 is being evaluated as a treatment option for several ocular conditions, including ocular inflammation, uveitis, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and post-refractive surgery complications. As a non-steroidal small molecule, KIO-104 offers an alternative to conventional steroid therapies and systemic anti-inflammatory drugs, which are often associated with significant side effects.

The molecule exerts its effect by inhibiting dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH), a mitochondrial enzyme essential for the synthesis of DNA and RNA precursors. This targeted mechanism positions KIO-104 as a promising candidate for inflammatory retinal disorders.

“This specific patent is significant in its breadth of therapeutic applications,” said Brian M. Strem, PhD, President and CEO of Kiora Pharmaceuticals. “Securing this patent builds on our IP strategy to protect KIO-104 around its proprietary structure, delivery methods, formulation, and therapeutic applications.”

According to the company, the newly granted patent will extend KIO-104’s market exclusivity through 2043, providing long-term protection for its potential commercial use.

Phase 2 Clinical Trial Underway

Kiora is currently conducting the KLARITY study, a multicenter Phase 2 clinical trial designed to evaluate KIO-104 in up to 28 patients with various forms of inflammatory retinal diseases. The study assesses two dose levels, and the results from this initial stage will inform future dose expansion and development strategy.