Virology

Biography

Biography: Ronald Moss

Abstract

Vaccines and antivirals are currently the main approaches to prevent and treat respiratory virus infections such as influenza. The recent 2009 H1N1 pandemic and the H7N9 outbreaks exemplify the unpredictable nature of influenza viruses. Particularly concerning is the documentation NAI drug resistance to particular strains of influenza. DAS181, is an investigational host directed inhaled sialidase fusion protein and has shown in vitro and in vivo activity against many subtypes and strains of influenza virus including H7N9 and H5N1. Data will be presented from preclinical and late stage clinical studies of DAS181 against influenza. Parainfluenza lower track infection results in significant morbidity and mortality in immune-suppressed transplant patients without any licensed vaccines or antiviral drugs. In addition, the drug has shown in vitro and in vivo activity against parainfluenza virus strains (PIV-1, PIV-2, PIV-3, and PIV-4) by inactivating the virus binding receptors. DAS181 has been utilized in over 80 EIND’s, and a phase 1 study of transplant patients with severe PIV infection. Interestingly, DAS181 has also shown significant in vitro activity against other viruses including EV-68, JC, and BK. The host directed approach of DAS181 contrasts with virus specific antivirals, by circumventing considerable problems related to antiviral drug resistance, and the need for prediction of strains for effective vaccines. DAS181, an investigational drug, is currently in Phase 2 clinical trials of parainfluenza infection. Preclinical and clinical data from studies with DAS181 activity against a variety of pathogenic viruses will be presented.