Sweden-based biotech company Ascelia Pharma has filed a new patent application for its first-in-class orphan liver imaging drug, Orviglance.

In line with the strategy for Orviglance, the company has turned manufacturing knowledge and innovations into a patent application that, subject to approval and granting, further strengthens the market protection for Orviglance until 2046.

Magnus Corfitzen, CEO of Ascelia Pharma, said, "For both Ascelia Pharma and future commercialisation partners, this patent has the potential to strengthen the commercial opportunity and lifetime value of Orviglance."

Orviglance (manganese chloride tetrahydrate) is a novel oral contrast agent for MR-imaging developed to improve the detection and visualisation of focal liver lesions (including liver metastases and primary tumours) in patients with reduced kidney function, who are at risk of serious side effects from the currently available class of gadolinium-based contrast agents.

Granted Orphan Drug Designation by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Orviglance has completed a clinical programme of nine studies, including the pivotal global Phase 3 SPARKLE trial, which demonstrated strong and consistent efficacy and safety results. A New Drug Application (NDA) has been submitted to the FDA.

In addition, the company announced changes to its executive leadership team to strengthen its operational capabilities and position it for its next phase of growth.

Anton Hansson has been appointed as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), who will be joining the company around late January 2026. Hansson comes with a background in corporate finance, most recently from KPMG. The CFO role has until now been held in a dual capacity by the company’s Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer.

Meanwhile, Jennie Wilborgsson, currently Vice President of Clinical Development, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer (COO).

The new executive leadership team now comprises five members — CEO, Deputy CEO and CCO, CSO, COO and CFO — forming a streamlined and focused management structure aligned with the company’s strategic priorities.

“While we continue to focus on the important milestones ahead for Orviglance, these changes mark an important step in preparing Ascelia Pharma for the next chapter in our growth journey,” added Corfitzen.