Leading microRNA-based molecular diagnostics provider Rosetta Genomics announced today that it has received two notices of allowance for Patent Applications 12/661,041 and 12/850,091 from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Titled “microRNAs and Uses Thereof,” 12/661,041 has allowed claims covering the composition of matter for miR-29c, as well as sequence variants (90 percent identical thereto), a vector, and a probe comprising the same. miR-29c is a core element in miRview mets2 diagnostic assay for the identification of the tumor of origin in cancer of unknown and uncertain primary (“CUP”), which is Rosetta Genomics’ lead commercial product.

Titled “Viral and Viral Associated MiRNAs and Uses Thereof,” 12/850,091 has allowed claims covering the composition of matter for herpes simplex virus 1 miR-H3, miR-H4 and miR-H5, as well as sequence variants (80 percent identical thereto), a vector, and a complementary sequence comprising the same.

“The allowance of these key U.S. patents is central to our growing patent portfolio, as they protect core composition of matter and sequencing variants for our lead marketed product,” said Rosetta Genomics CEO and President Kenneth A. Berlin. “In addition, obtaining patent coverage for additional viral microRNAs expands our leadership in microRNA and offers us the potential to license, partner or otherwise derive value from this powerful technology in viral diseases. These allowances continue to fortify our dominant patent position in microRNA technology while creating additional barriers to entry for any would-be competitors.”

Rosetta continues maintaining a vigorous intellectual property strategy to protect its microRNA technology leadership position. The company’s portfolio is comprised of 29 issued patents – including 25 in the United States – and 42 patent applications, 21 of which are in the U.S.

For more information, visit the Rosetta Genomics Web site at www.rosettagenomics.com

Let us hear your thoughts below: