AuraVax Therapeutics Secures Grant for Groundbreaking Viral Challenge Study

AuraVax Therapeutics Inc. Secures Grant for Viral Challenge Study

AuraVax Therapeutics, Inc. has recently announced that it has been awarded a significant grant from the Gates Foundation to evaluate the effectiveness of its innovative therapeutic, NanoSTING-001. This study aims to assess the drug's efficacy using a swine disease model at both Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in Manhattan, Kansas, and The Pirbright Institute located in Surrey, United Kingdom.

Understanding NanoSTING-001

NanoSTING-001 is designed to activate the innate immune response in a targeted manner as a broad-spectrum host-directed therapeutic, specifically aimed at combating respiratory infections, including seasonal influenza and potential biothreats. This therapeutic approach stands out due to its mechanism of action, utilizing lipid nanoparticles to deliver a natural activator to the intracellular pathway known as stimulator of interferon genes (STING). The goal is to not only prepare the body for potential infections but to also reduce the severity of illness if exposure occurs.

The Study's Significance

The upcoming study will specifically focus on the ability of NanoSTING-001 to shield pigs from influenza infection. Results from this research are expected to yield critical data that will inform the design and implementation of future clinical trials with humans. This is particularly pertinent as the burden of respiratory diseases continues to rise globally.

Respiratory diseases, particularly influenza, are not only a significant source of morbidity but also a strain on healthcare resources. According to estimates from the CDC, the 2024-2025 flu season in the United States could see between 47 million to 82 million cases of influenza, as well as hundreds of thousands of related hospitalizations and fatalities. Due to the unique nature of host-directed therapies, systems that target the innate immune system may offer protection irrespective of vaccination, which could be crucial in preventing respiratory illnesses from various threats, including influenza.

Preclinical Success

Preliminary testing of NanoSTING-001 has yielded promising results. The therapeutic was well-tolerated in preclinical trials, demonstrated the ability to rapidly activate the innate immunity, and showed efficacy in treating the manifestations of infection. Notably, intranasal administration of NanoSTING-001 has been found to prevent and alleviate both influenza A and B infections — even those strains that have shown resistance to Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and highly pathogenic strains like avian influenza H5N1.

Collaboration and Future Directions

Joseph Sullivan, CEO of AuraVax, expressed his enthusiasm regarding their collaboration with Kansas State University and The Pirbright Institute for studies utilizing validated swine models of influenza infection. Sullivan noted, "We are grateful to the foundation for their financial support as these studies will provide important scientific information for the field of host-directed therapies. Our expectation is that NanoSTING-001 will reduce the seasonal disease burden of respiratory infections and provide a novel countermeasure to help mute the onset of emerging respiratory pathogens."

About AuraVax Therapeutics

AuraVax is a private biotechnology company dedicated to developing airway products inspired by its NanoSTING platform for addressing respiratory infections. The company focuses on activating innate immunity by selectively targeting the STING pathway, a strategy that could potentially mitigate multiple respiratory health threats. Their pipeline includes NanoSTING-001, aimed at treating infections induced by respiratory pathogens, alongside intranasal NanoSTING-002, which serves as a mucosal adjuvant to enhance immune responses to various vaccines.

For further detailed insights or inquiries about AuraVax’s pioneering work, one can visit their official website or reach out to Joseph Sullivan directly at [email protected] or +1 267-421-9792.

Additional information about AuraVax's NanoSTING platform and its potential can be accessed through a dedicated introductory video available on their website.

This research supports the growing interest in innovative therapies to combat respiratory viruses effectively and could lead to groundbreaking improvements in public health management regarding infectious diseases.