Leyden Laboratories has initiated a Phase 1 trial of its intranasal PanFlu CR9114 anti-hemagglutinin stem human antibody in healthy volunteers, the company said. In July 2021, Leyden Labs announced that it had partnered with Nanopharm on development of intranasal formulations for Phase 1 studies. According to Leyden Labs, preclinical studies of CR9114 in animal models have shown that the antibody offers protection against both infection by flu viruses and disease.
Leyden Labs Chief Scientific Officer Jaap Goudsmit said, “We believe our PanFlu nasal spray could provide protection for both seasonal epidemics and potential future pandemics of influenza. This is not only relevant for people with a weakened immune system and at high risk for hospitalization, but for anyone who risks missing work or school because of flu that keeps them at home or in bed. In case of a severe influenza pandemic, PanFlu could function as an important first line of defense.”
CEO Koenraad Wiedhaup commented, “Amidst the worrisome spread of highly virulent H5N1 avian flu among animals, it’s becoming clearer than ever that society needs a readily available ‘universal response’ ahead of future potential pandemics. Leyden Labs is extremely excited to have reached the first-in-human milestone for PanFlu.”
Read the Leyden Labs press release.
