The Directors are pleased to provide an update on its ongoing program to develop compounds with activity against SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.
The Company previously advised on 7 September 2020 that several of its proprietary compounds had demonstrated antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2 in laboratory studies. At that time, Biotron outlined its plan to extend its testing program to a series of newly designed and synthesised compounds. Since then, the Company has been screening this series of new, proprietary compounds in a range of different cell-culture assays designed to test the antiviral activity of the compounds against SARS-CoV-2.
The Directors are now pleased to report that as a result of this extended testing program, the Company has identified its top three anti-SARS-CoV-2 compounds. These three compounds have inhibited SARS-CoV-2 replication in three different cell culture models of SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. The assays were performed by collaborators at the Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA. Details of the methods used are set out below in an Addendum to this announcement.
Biotron’s Managing Director, Michelle Miller, said; “The antiviral activity shown across a range of different assays by these three novel compounds against SARS-CoV-2 is encouraging. Identification of this potential lead series of compounds is a positive step for Biotron as we work towards new ways to treat this disease. The results underscore the versatility of Biotron’s approach to designing and developing drugs to target serious virus infections.”
These compounds are now progressing through preliminary safety studies as well as bioavailability studies in mice. When complete, the compounds are expected to be tested in animal model(s) of COVID-19 infection reflecting the diverse presentation of this disease. It is expected that these planned studies will be completed in mid-2021.
Yours sincerely Peter J. Nightingale Company Secretary pjn10731
