Windtree Therapeutics says a pre-clinical study in ferrets exposed to influenza demonstrated that the company’s aerosolized KL4 surfactant increased survival and reduced lung inflammation, although the increase in survival rate was less than that for animals treated with oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Fewer clinical signs of influenza were observed in animals treated with KL4 surfactant than in animals that received oseltamivir.
Based on the results, Windtree said that it “believes that these preclinical data add to a growing body of evidence that supports the role of KL4 surfactant as a potential medical intervention to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with both seasonal and pandemic influenza pneumonia.”
Windtree Therapeutics President and CEO Craig Fraser commented, “While we remain focused on the rigorous and timely execution of the Aerosurf phase 2 clinical program in premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), we are encouraged by the results of this study in influenza as there is significant unmet need to protect the lungs in patients with severe influenza pneumonia. A Phase I SBIR contract from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provided us the opportunity to study the use of KL4 surfactant to reduce lung injury after exposure to a highly pathogenic influenza strain. We are grateful for the support provided by the NIH for this study as well as the previously announced preclinical study in the use of KL4 surfactant as a medical countermeasure to mitigate damage to lungs after radiation exposure. Windtree plans to seek additional funding from the NIH to support further exploration of aerosolized KL4 surfactant as a potential medical countermeasure for treating influenza-associated lung injury.”
The company is also developing aerosolized KL4 surfactant for chemical- and radiation-induced lung injury.
Read the Windtree Therapeutics press release.
