Overview
This patent describes a pharmacological approach using orally administered low-dose type I and type III interferons to reduce muscle injury and stabilize skeletal muscle. Filed in July 2014 and granted in May 2017, the application—by inventors based in Edmond, OK—discloses compositions (including interferon-alpha, interferon-omega, and interferon-lambda) formulated for oral delivery as lozenges, liquids, chewables, or as feed supplements for ruminants. The specification details practical dosing (about 0.01 IU/lb to about 100 IU/lb), inclusion of stabilizers such as trehalose and select disaccharides, and microencapsulation strategies to bypass the rumen for targeted enteric release. Experimental data described in the file demonstrate reduced serum creatine kinase (CK) in calves after single and repeated oral dosing, supporting prophylactic and therapeutic use to limit muscle damage from handling, transport, or disease. The claims are drafted to capture both direct oral dosing and feed‑based delivery systems across species, reflecting careful prosecution strategy and technical depth.
Key Features
- Low-dose oral interferon therapy for muscle protection (0.01–100 IU/lb)
- Formulations: lozenges, liquids, feed supplements, and encapsulated enteric release
- Stabilizers included: trehalose plus maltose/lactose/fructose options
- Demonstrated reduction in serum CK in calves after handling-induced muscle stress
- Claims cover administration regimens, dosage ranges, and ruminant-focused feed formulations
This portfolio-strengthening patent connects molecular immunotherapy with practical delivery solutions for veterinary and potentially human inflammatory myopathies, offering clear implications for animal welfare, livestock economics, and translation to broader therapeutic applications.
Granted: 2017-05-09
