Synairgen said it is looking at three clinical settings for its antiviral treatment SNG001.
First, as a broad-spectrum antiviral for people hospitalised with severe viral lung infections caused by a range of common seasonal viruses.
Second, in people hospitalised with COVID-19, including in high-risk sub-populations such as those with compromised respiratory function.
And as a possible future pandemic preparedness option for government agencies.
The pivot follows the Phase 3 SPRINTER trial in hospitalised COVID-19 patients.
This missed its main endpoints but showed a reduction in the relative risk (RRR) of progression from requiring low flow oxygen to more severe disease or death.
"Over the course of the pandemic we generated a significant amount of clinical and non-clinical data which supports the development of SNG001 as a broad-spectrum antiviral to treat or prevent a wide range of severe lung infections,” Richard Marsden, chief executive, said.
“We have been scrutinising the requirements, feasibility and timing of several clinical development options, including company-sponsored studies focussing on certain high-need populations, government-funded trials, as well as investigator-led studies. We continue to be excited about the potential of SNG001."
Synairgen made a loss before tax for the six months ended 30 June 2022 of £14mln (30 June 2021: £38.9mln loss) and that largely comprised R&D spending.
Cash balances at the end of the period were £18mln, with a further £9.1mln R&D credit received recently.