The Technology
This broad-spectrum antiviral nanoparticle technology leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and synthetic biology to develop decoy receptors that neutralize viruses before they infect human cells. These nanoparticles are composed of synthetic long non-coding RNA (slncRNA) molecules, which self-assemble with virus-targeting receptor proteins. By mimicking the natural receptors that viruses use to enter human cells, they trap and deactivate viral particles, preventing infection.
A key part of the innovation is the ability to program the slncRNA molecules with multiple binding sites for RNA binding phage coat proteins (CPs). When combined slncRNAs and their cognate binding CPs phase-separate to form nucleoprotein particles called granules, where the RNA molecules wrap around a CP-based protein core. By fusing the CP-moiety with any number of soluble receptor domains the granules become programmable antiviral nanoparticles that can be used to target anywhere from a single virus family to several families, thus making these particles candidate broad-spectrum antiviral therapeutics. This flexibility in design can allow this platform to be rapidly programmed to target any emerging infectious disease assuming that the target receptor is known.
Unlike traditional antiviral treatments such as vaccines and small-molecule inhibitors, which either require immune activation or are vulnerable to resistance, the decoy antiviral approach works independently of the immune system. It physically neutralizes viruses by binding to them directly, making it highly resistant to viral mutations. The nanoparticles remain stable for weeks at room temperature, eliminating the need for cold-chain storage and making them highly accessible worldwide.
Advantages
- Broad-Spectrum Protection – Targets multiple viruses, including coronaviruses, influenza, RSV, and potentially other emerging threats.
- Room-Temperature Stability – Unlike vaccines that require cold storage, these nanoparticles remain stable for weeks at ambient temperatures, ensuring global accessibility.
- Rapid Pandemic Response – Serves as a first-line defense before vaccines are developed, slowing virus transmission.
- Immune System Independence – Works without triggering an immune response, making it effective regardless of viral mutations.
- Low Side Effects – Does not interfere with human cellular functions, unlike traditional antivirals.
- Scalable and Cost-Effective – AI-assisted design enables fast and cost-effective mass production.
Applications
- Pandemic Preparedness – Immediate deployment in outbreaks to contain the spread of new viral threats.
- Seasonal Flu and Respiratory Viruses – Alternative treatment for influenza, RSV, and other respiratory infections.
- Travel and Military Protection – Preventative use for frequent travelers, military personnel, and frontline workers.
- Low-Resource and Remote Areas – Ideal for regions with limited access to cold storage and vaccines.
- Biodefense and Biosecurity – Protection against biological threats and engineered viral outbreaks.
- Hospital and Healthcare Settings – Reduces nosocomial infections by providing prophylactic antiviral protection.
Business Development Contacts