Dr. Magoola’s Dei BioPharma Wins US Patents for Therapies
Dei BioPharma US patents have been granted for two powerful therapeutic platforms that could transform healthcare worldwide. The biotech firm, based in Kampala and led by Ugandan scientist Dr. Matthias Magoola, secured approval from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on July 21, 2025.
The first patent covers a universal mRNA cancer vaccine. This treatment reprograms the body’s immune system to detect and attack tumors that usually remain invisible. Unlike typical vaccines that must be customized per patient, this one uses general antigens inside lipid nanoparticles. These particles stimulate type-I interferon, which activates the immune system broadly.
In preclinical trials, the vaccine achieved complete tumor regression and 90% protection against recurrence. Its design allows the immune system to recognize several cancer markers at once. The vaccine also works well with checkpoint inhibitors like anti-PD-1 drugs.
The second patent targets immune disorders. It protects a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) biologic aimed at IL-23p19, a key protein linked to inflammation. Current drugs like Skyrizi® and Tremfya® also target this protein, but Dei BioPharma’s treatment is different.
Dr. Magoola’s biologic is smaller, cheaper to produce, and more flexible in how it’s delivered. Patients can use it via nasal sprays, topical creams, inhalers, or patches. The drug attaches to albumin or transferrin to last longer in the body and reach more tissues. It also costs up to 80% less to manufacture thanks to microbial systems.
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Dr. Magoola called the patents “moral declarations” rather than just scientific wins. “We are abolishing the myth that cures belong only to the rich,” he said. His work aims to bring advanced, affordable care to both urban hospitals and rural clinics.
Dei BioPharma’s mission is clear: change how diseases are treated and make life-saving drugs available everywhere. This vision is especially important for Africa and the Global South.
In June 2025, Dr. Magoola earned Uganda’s Faces of Science award. The honor recognized his contributions to biotech and global medicine.
With these patents, Dei BioPharma is no longer just a local player. It now stands among global innovators reshaping the future of cancer and immune therapy.
