Rabies virus is among the most neurotrophic known virus and it has a fatality rate of almost 100%. There is a need for antibody-induced protection in the central nervous system, since rabies virus can cross the blood-brain barrier but antibodies cannot. Investigators from Auburn University and the Scott-Ritchey Research Center have presented an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-based approach for brain encephalitis caused by rabies virus infection.
Nanjing Sanhome Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.’s Shengnuodi (alfosbuvir tablets), used as part of a combination treatment for hepatitis C, has been approved by China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) through the priority review and approval procedure.
Efficacy data for Pfizer Inc.’s respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine proved convincing for members of the U.S. FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee, which voted 14-0 May 18 in favor of Abrysvo’s effectiveness when administered during the second or third trimester of pregnancy to protect infants from birth to 6 months, with the adcom endorsing safety data in a 10-4 vote.
China's National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) has given drug clinical trial approval for two new COVID-19 vaccines against the current XBB variants developed by Westvac Biopharma Co. Ltd. and West China Medical Center at Sichuan University.
Dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) is an enzyme ubiquitously expressed in all tissues whose inhibition has proven effective in preventing viral replication. Previous knowledge on DHODH inhibitor vidofludimus calcium demonstrated that this compound inhibits viral replication of DNA, RNA and retroviruses and induces innate immune responses that lead to an antiviral state thus inhibiting virus reactivation.
With GSK plc’s Arexvy approved in the U.S. as the first respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine, several other developers are lining up for what in five years could be a $10 billion market. Their aim is to provide lasting protection for those most susceptible to the endemic virus, particularly young children and those older than 60. Behind GSK is Pfizer Inc. with PF-06928316, which has a U.S. FDA PDUFA date set for this month, and Sanofi SA’s nirsevimab, for which FDA action is expected in the third quarter.
Researchers from Aligos Therapeutics Inc. and the Katholieke Universiteit Leuven reported on the preclinical activity of ALG-097558, a novel oral available 3CL protease inhibitor with pan-coronavirus antiviral activity.
Researchers from Fundacio Privada Instituto de Salud Global Barcelona (ISGLOBAL), Institut de Bioenginyeria de Catalunya (IBEC) and Universitat de Barcelona have described compounds reported to be useful for the treatment of malaria.