Breakthrough nasal spray as virus fighter
Preliminary research indicates convincing evidence for the effectiveness of the new Leyden Labs nasal spray as a remedy against influenza viruses. The initial trial results are promising; the PanFlu nasal spray has the potential to be used as a preventive tool against new pandemics.
The first results
In laboratory tests, the active ingredient in the nasal spray recognised various human and animal influenza viruses. Preliminary research indicates that the drug may offer protection against both new seasonal influenza variants and influenza viruses that spread from animals to humans. The trials were conducted on mice and monkeys, and on 143 healthy human subjects. The trials on monkeys proved particularly successful; the monkeys treated with the nasal spray had lower virus levels and recovered more quickly than untreated monkeys. Follow-up studies with more subjects are needed to determine how effective the drug is in protecting humans against viruses.
Remedy for pandemics
Last October, Leyden Labs received €30 million from the European Innovation Council (EIC) Fund and Invest-NL to further develop their PanFlu nasal spray and bring it to market. The nasal spray offers protection to vulnerable groups, including the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. This reduces the burden of seasonal flu and ensures that Europe is better prepared for future pandemics. Last Wednesday, the first results were published in Science Translational Medicine, presenting convincing evidence of the drug's efficacy.
