A platform technology for broad-spectrum antivirals
The Issue
The danger from airborne viruses is real and omnipresent. The COVID-19 pandemic has once again made this clear to us. Pandemics like these, especially those caused by influenza viruses, have already cost millions of lives in the past, not to mention the economic consequences. But it is not just life-threatening infections that have a massive impact on our life. It is also everyday illnesses, such as a common cold, that cost healthcare systems enormous amounts of money and cause huge damage to the economy through the sick leave they cause.
We would be much better protected against airborne infections if we could improve the protective layer of the human respiratory tract just a little.
– Dr. Marius Hittinger, Co-Founder
The natural protection
Our airways are protected by a layer of mucus, which serves as the first line of defense against airborne pathogens like viruses. This mucus layer is highly effective, trapping germs countless times each day before they can reach the underlying cells and cause illness. The trapped pathogens are then moved by cilia through the throat and into the stomach, where they are digested.
However, this barrier is not fail-safe. Some pathogens, such as influenza viruses, have developed the ability to bypass the mucus layer, potentially leading to illness.
The solution: We boost the natural mucus barrier
At MucosaTec GmbH, we’ve developed a unique concept to enhance the natural barrier function of mucus against viruses using bi-specific proteins of natural origin. These proteins act as connecting elements: one end anchors in the mucus, while the other end captures viruses. This targeted approach allows potentially dangerous viruses to be captured more effectively in the mucus and then rendered harmless as they are transported to the stomach and destroyed by stomach acid. This boosted mucus is much more effective than natural mucus at preventing infection and transmission to others.
With this concept, we as Team MucBoost became one of the four winners in the “broad-spectrum antivirals“ challenge, launched in 2021 by the Federal Agency for Disruptive Innovation SPRIND (Bundesagentur für Sprunginnovationen).
Our antiviral platform technology
Our patented antiviral platform technology is based on this innovative concept. With its modular design, this technology is highly adaptable. Its individual components can be easily exchanged, allowing us to switch the virus binder to target any virus in principle.
Influenza prophylaxis and treatment
Based on this antiviral platform technology, MucosaTec GmbH is currently developing a broadly effective nasal spray against various flu viruses. This is intended for both influenza prophylaxis and therapy. It will be used for both influenza prophylaxis and therapy.
After extensive and successful preclinical and clinical testing, this nasal spray will be brought to market to protect as many people as possible from the flu. Older adults and individuals with weakened immune systems, in particular, could benefit from our nasal spray, which could serve as a vaccine alternative for immunocompromised.
