Sunshine Biopharma Inc. (NASDAQ: SBFM) announced that the United States Patent and Trademark Office issued U.S. Patent No. 12,624,066 B2 for compounds designed to treat coronavirus infections. The patent covers small molecule inhibitors that target a viral enzyme called PLpro, which suppresses the human immune system during coronavirus infections.

The compounds were developed by Sunshine Biopharma scientists during the COVID-19 pandemic. The technology targets what the company describes as a highly conserved viral function, intended to remain effective as the virus mutates.

"The issuance of this patent is a major milestone for Sunshine Biopharma and a validation of our scientific strategy," said Dr. Steve Slilaty, CEO of Sunshine Biopharma. "Coronaviruses mutate rapidly, and the world cannot assume the threat has passed. Our goal is to advance therapies that can help address not only today's variants but also those that may emerge in the future."

According to the company, the patented compounds are ready for GLP studies, which must be completed before clinical trials can begin. Sunshine Biopharma stated it continues to invest in research for viral threat solutions.

The Fort Lauderdale-based pharmaceutical company currently markets 60 generic prescription drugs in Canada and plans to launch approximately 12 additional drugs in the remainder of 2026. The company also develops proprietary treatments including an mRNA therapy for liver cancer and the coronavirus protease inhibitor covered by the new patent.