Pulmonary and intranasal delivery of broad-spectrum antiviral agent for respiratory viral infections

Dr Leung, Susan Wai Sum   (Principal Investigator (PI))

Dr Yuan Shuofeng   (Co-Investigator)

36

2021-12-01

1500000

Pulmonary and intranasal delivery of broad-spectrum antiviral agent for respiratory viral infections

influenza, intranasal delivery, powder aerosol, pulmonary delivery, spray drying, spray freeze drying

Others - Medicine, Dentistry and Health

20190582

Health and Medical Research Fund - Full Grant

2020

On-going

Objectives: Current study aims to develop inhaled and nasal powder formulations of broad-spectrum antiviral drugs with excellent efficacy. High drug concentration at the infection sites can be achieved for robust antiviral activity with reduced systemic side-effects. Hypothesis: Our previous study shows that AM580, a retinoid derivative, has broad-spectrum antiviral activity against influenza and coronavirus but its poor lung distribution and low solubility render it difficult for clinical application. We hypothesize that two particle-engineering techniques, spray-freeze-drying and spray-drying, can be employed to produce powder formulations of AM580 or its analogues with excellent aerosol property for inhalation or intranasal administration. Design and subjects: Spray-freeze-drying and spray-drying will be used to produce a series of AM580 (and its analogues) powder formulations which will be characterized for their physicochemical and aerosolization properties to determine the optimal formulations for inhalation or intranasal administration. The antiviral activity of the optimal formulations will be evaluated in animal models. Instruments: Spray-dryer, freeze-dryer and atomization nozzles. Interventions: Antiviral activity of the powder formulation will be evaluated in animal models of influenza A and coronavirus infections (MERS and COVID-19) following pulmonary and intranasal administration. Main outcome measures: Pharmacokinetic profiles and antiviral effects of the inhaled and nasal powder formulations in animals. Data analysis: Body weight, survival rate and viral load will be analyzed and compared between groups with different treatments and formulations. Expected results: This translational project will contribute to the development of novel antiviral formulations that are easy to administer with excellent activity against multiple respiratory viruses.