Value Proposition
· Provides targeted pulmonary delivery with superior lung pharmacokinetics
· Offers mutation-resistant therapeutic action, unlike current vaccines
· Reduces risk of progression to severe lung disease in newly diagnosed patients
· Applicable to a wide range of respiratory infections and ARDS-related conditions
· Enhances treatment efficacy compared to systemic or oral medications
· Supports early intervention and disease management in vulnerable populations
Technology Description
· Researchers at Johns Hopkins have developed an inhalable nanosuspension formulation featuring telmisartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker. This formulation is designed for direct pulmonary delivery to modulate the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and interferes with viral replication mechanisms. By targeting the lungs, the therapy offers a localized, multi-pronged approach to managing respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and conditions leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Its design supports broad applicability across diseases characterized by RAS dysregulation and severe lung pathology.
Unmet Need
· Currently COVID-19 vaccines, while effective in reducing severe disease, do not fully prevent infection and may be less effective against emerging variants. Therapeutic options for individuals who are already infected but not yet critically ill remain limited. There is a pressing need for treatments that can intervene early, prevent disease escalation, and remain effective regardless of viral mutations. Additionally, ARDS and other conditions involving RAS dysregulation, lack targeted, inhalable therapies that can deliver drugs directly to the lungs.
Stage of Development
· This technology is currently in the preclinical development stage, with promising results from in vitro and small animal studies.
· Researchers are pursuing pilot pharmacokinetic and safety assessments in non-human primates to further validate efficacy and tolerability.
· Preparations are underway for a pre-IND (Investigational New Drug) meeting with the FDA.
· The next milestones include GLP-compliant manufacturing and formal safety studies, which will enable progression to Phase I clinical trials.
Data Availability
· Data available upon request.
Publication
N/A
