China-based Hybio Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd (SHE: 300199) has received approval from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) to initiate a Phase I clinical study for its Category 1.1 chemical drug, HY3000, a nasal spray designed to target COVID-19.
Mechanism of Action and Efficacy
HY3000 is a new type of polypeptide membrane fusion inhibitor that binds to the HR1 region of the new coronavirus spike protein. This binding prevents the formation of the six-helix bundle structure, which is essential for the virus to infect cells, thereby achieving an antiviral effect. Notably, HY3000 possesses a novel mechanism of action with a conservative action site, making it less susceptible to the impact of new coronavirus mutations. It has demonstrated high activity against the main epidemic strains, including Omicron.
Implications of HY3000’s Development
The development of HY3000 as a nasal spray offers a potential new approach to preventing and treating COVID-19 infections. Its ability to maintain efficacy against various strains, including those that have mutated, positions HY3000 as a promising candidate in the global fight against the pandemic.-Fineline Info & Tech
