A new antiviral therapy developed by preclinical biotech company Eradivir has shown significant potential in combating advanced-stage influenza more effectively and quickly than existing treatments. The therapy, EV25, demonstrated in preclinical studies that a single intranasal dose can eliminate detectable virus within 24 hours, providing a faster response and broader treatment window than current options.
Breakthrough Treatment for Influenza
EV25 is a bispecific small molecule that inhibits viral neuraminidase and recruits naturally occurring antibodies to fight the virus. Unlike currently available flu medications, which must be taken early in infection to be effective, EV25 has an extended efficacy window of up to 96 hours postinfection. This advancement could be critical for treating severe cases where early intervention is impossible.
A recent study, “Targeted recruitment of immune effector cells for rapid eradication of influenza virus infections,” was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. It highlights the promising results of EV25 in preclinical models. The therapy reduces viral loads rapidly, lowers inflammation, and protects against lung damage caused by the virus.
Regulatory Approvals and Upcoming Trials
EV25 has received approval from European and Belgian regulatory agencies to proceed with a Phase 1 human trial, set to conclude early next year. A Phase 2a trial will further evaluate safety and effectiveness after completion, with data expected by July 2025.
The drug is built on the Bispecific Antigenic immunotherapy (BAiT) platform, developed by Purdue University’s Philip Low, a distinguished professor and chief scientific officer at Eradivir. Purdue’s Office of Technology Commercialization has applied for patents on immunological innovations and has licensed them to Eradivir for further development.
Global Recognition and Future Prospects
Eradivir recently showcased EV25 at OPTIONS XII, a leading global conference on influenza, where it won the Best in Clinical Science and Vaccinology award. In addition to influenza research, the company is also working on a novel therapy for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), another significant public health concern.
Jeffery Nielsen, Eradivir’s vice president for research and development, emphasized the impact of these breakthroughs. “EV25 is a game changer in how effective it is compared to existing therapeutics in preclinical models,” he stated. “The RSV drug is another game changer because it rapidly clears out infection in preclinical models; there are currently no therapies to treat a person infected with RSV.”
As Eradivir continues its clinical trials, EV25 could significantly advance in influenza treatment, offering a faster and more effective solution for severe infections.
Reference: Imrul Shahriar, Mohini Kamra, Ananda Kumar Kanduluru, Charity Lynn Campbell, Thanh Hiep Nguyen, Madduri Srinivasarao, Philip S. Low. Targeted recruitment of immune effector cells for rapid eradication of influenza virus infections. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2024.
