Zentek and Triera Biosciences Ltd. Achieve Positive Results Against Avian Influenza (H5N1) using Multivalent Aptamer Technology - Seite 2

Lead aptamer sequences for influenza have already been selected by the Li Lab at McMaster University for the creation of a universal influenza aptamer. These lead candidates have been tested using a dot blot assay and biolayer interferometry to assess the binding affinity to the H5 protein for avian influenza. The lead monomer candidates for influenza are binding with an affinity less than one nanomolar, which compares favourably to the monomer used to form C19HBA.

The team at McMaster have used the proprietary multivalent aptamer technology to synthesize lead therapeutic and prophylactic candidates. In the coming weeks, the neutralization and therapeutic potential of these lead candidates will be assessed through in vitro and in vivo tests conducted by the Miller Laboratory. These results will be used to guide further optimization with the goal of having a final lead therapeutic candidate ready for pre-clinical testing as soon as possible.

If the H5N1 high binding aptamer program generates promising results, Triera will provide regular updates to government agencies responsible for the management and response to H5N1. Triera's ultimate goal is to develop an avian flu infectious management system that combines the use of diagnostics, prophylaxis and therapeutics leading to a simple strategy that detects, protects and treats based on the same multivalent aptamer agent.

"Our aptamer platform technology has produced robust safety and efficacy results using Covid as a proof of concept. And with the mechanism of neutralizing the H5N1 virus very comparable to that which neutralizes SARS-CoV-2, we are confident we can further prove out our platform's ability to more rapidly respond to outbreaks compared to traditional treatments. Longer term, we have the potential to offer a complete program that could minimize the impact from numerous infectious diseases by providing prophylaxis, therapeutic and rapid detection using the same aptamer" said Greg Fenton, CEO of the Company and Triera. "Outbreaks and associated repercussions - both human and economic - will be an ongoing reality for society. Based on results achieved to date with Dr. Yingfu Li's world-leading aptamer selection capabilities, we believe Triera is uniquely positioned to most effectively develop assets that could either treat or prevent further transmission of H5N1 and many other infectious diseases in the years ahead."