[THE INVESTOR]  South Korean biotechnology firm Celltrion announced on Aug. 29 that it has obtained patents regarding CT-P23 antibody specific to influenza A virus in Australia and Japan.

According to the company, the monoclonal antibody demonstrates neutralizing activity against H1, H3, H5, H7 and H9 strains of the virus. 

In addition to Australia and Japan, the antibody has been patented in six other countries and regions including China and the US, the company said. According to Celltrion, the patents are valid in 56 nations. 

The company said that CT-P23 is highly effective in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the influenza A virus, and that it is currently developing influenza treatment by combining CT-P27.

By Choi He-suk (cheesuk@heraldcorp.com)