NanoViricides, Inc.,
said that an internationally renowned Japanese ophthalmologist and corneal researcher,
Kazuo Tsubota, MD, PhD, has agreed to perform confirmatory animal efficacy studies
of the nanoviricide anti-EKC drug candidate, EKC-Cide(TM), against EKC (epidemic
kerato-conjunctivitis) in Japan. Dr. Tsubota is currently Professor and Chairman
of the Department of Ophthalmology at Keio University School of Medicine in
Tokyo, Japan.
“NanoViricides’ study of clinical efficacy of EkcCide, is very
significant. Their study conclusively demonstrated clearance of the severe pink
eye symptoms,” said Dr. Tsubota, after a discussion with the Company scientists
in a meeting in Boston last week. He commented, “EKC and herpes virus
infections of the eye are important medical problems in Japan, and Japanese
pharmaceutical companies have a strong interest in potential treatments,”
He continued by saying, “I am very pleased to have the opportunity to
confirm the studies in Japan. This is the first step towards obtaining Japanese
regulatory approval.”
EKC is a severe and contagious viral infection of the eye in humans which can
lead to severe visual impairment. Viral EKC is primarily caused by adenoviruses,
although some other viruses may also be the causative agent in humans. There
is no currently available treatment for viral EKC.
The Company has previously reported that EkcCide was shown to cause rapid and
clear clinical recovery of infected animal eyes in a study conducted by a renowned
US ophthalmologic Institute. The infection in this study was caused by adenovirus
5, supplied by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Representative
photographs are posted on the Company’s website.
The Company anticipates that the eye-drop formulation of the broad-spectrum
nanoviricide drug candidate which was successful against adenoviral EKC may
have significant potential against other viral EKC and the less severe viral
conjunctivitis diseases as well. Common viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious
and occurs primarily in schools and other crowded settings, as well as in immuno-compromised
populations. While the Company currently has no approved product for the treatment
of EKC and viral conjunctivitis, the treatment and prophylaxis market for EKC
and other viral causes of conjunctivitis is expected to be in the order of several
billion dollars annually.