NanoViricides (NYSE-A:NNVC) said it believes that its broad-spectrum antiviral candidate, NV-387, could be a critical tool in combating a potential bird flu pandemic caused by the H5N1 Influenza A virus.
In a statement, the company claims the virus would be unable to evade NV-387, even as it mutates.
"Despite all changes, the H5N1 Influenza A virus should remain susceptible to NV-387 because NV-387 mimics the very essential host-side feature that H5N1 continues to use even as it changes," said Dr Anil Diwan, president and executive chairman of NanoViricides (NYSE-A:NNVC).
"This drug puts us in a great position to be able to fight a bird flu pandemic should it happen."
The World Health Organization recently noted that human cases of H5 infections have exhibited genetic markers suggesting reduced susceptibility to current influenza treatments, such as neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) and polymerase (B) inhibitors (PBIs).
NanoViricides (NYSE-A:NNVC) emphasized that NV-387 offers a unique advantage by targeting host-side features essential to viral infection, rendering it less susceptible to viral resistance.
Preclinical studies have shown that NV-387 outperforms existing antiviral drugs in animal models. Mice treated with NV-387 demonstrated significantly improved survival rates and lung protection compared to those treated with current influenza medications like oseltamivir and baloxavir.
NV-387 has already completed a Phase I human clinical trial with no reported adverse events. The company is preparing for Phase II trials for MPox treatment and respiratory virus infections.