Novel Therapeutics for the Treatment and Prevention of Avian Influenza
Background:
The National Cancer Institute is
seeking statements of capability or interest from parties
interested in collaborative research to further develop, evaluate,
or commercialize cyanovirin-N for use against H5N1 influenza. The
technology is also available for non-exclusive or exclusive
licensing. In vitro and early-stage animal studies have been
performed.
Influenza a viral subtype H5N1 causes avian influenza and is
currently the subject of increasing international attention.
Usually, avian influenza infection is limited to birds and pigs;
however H5N1 has the unique capacity to bring about severe illness
and death in humans. H5N1 is highly contagious, fast spreading and
rapidly evolving and therefore has the potential to cause a
worldwide health epidemic.
Technology:
The available technology embodies
methods of using a cyanovirin-N (CV-N) peptide, protein, or nucleic
acid in the prevention and/or treatment of infection. Methods,
which utilize CV-N in the treatment of certain influenza strains,
have previously been demonstrated. However, the novel use of CV-N
to treat the H5N1 strain is unique and development of prophylactics
and/or therapeutics against the virus represents a significant
contribution to agriculture and public health sectors throughout
the world.
Contact
Information:
John D. Hewes, Ph.D., NCI
Technology Transfer Center
Phone: 301-435-3121
E-mail: Hewesj@mail.nih.gov
Reference: 435 MC
Updated 10/24/2007
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