PharmaTher’s Sairiyo Therapeutics Announces Independent Drug Screening
PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (the “Company” or “PharmaTher”) (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM), a specialty pharmaceutical company, has announced that Sairiyo Therapeutics Inc. (“Sairiyo”), which is 49% owned by PharmaTher and 51% owned by PharmaDrug Inc. (CSE: PHRX) (OTC Pink: LMLLF), has conducted an independent screening of drugs for monkeypox, also known as Mpox. This screening has revealed that cepharanthine has the potential to bind to the proteins of the virus. The findings were published in a letter to the editor titled, "Highly accurate protein structure prediction and drug screen of monkeypox virus proteome," which is non-peer-reviewed and appeared in the Journal of Infection.
Insights into Monkeypox Proteins
Our understanding of Mpox (monkeypox) proteins, which are crucial for the virus's function, remains limited. Identifying drugs or molecules that can interact with these proteins could be instrumental in treating Mpox virus infections. A study conducted by Yang et al. selected ten target proteins from the Mpox virus, as they are likely involved in essential functions and may interact with other molecules. In this research, cepharanthine demonstrated significant binding affinities to all ten target proteins, particularly showing strong affinities to four specific Mpox proteins: I1L, VITF3L, A42R, and E8L. This predicted interaction could enhance our understanding of the key mechanisms behind viral entry and replication, potentially guiding future treatments for Mpox infection.
Announcement of Clinical Study Approval
Sairiyo has received approval from the Australian Human Research Ethics Committee to commence a first-in-human Phase 1 clinical study for PD-001. This compound is being targeted as a potential treatment for Medical Countermeasures. Notably, PD-001 was previously awarded a $3.4 million contract from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) for its application against the Ebola virus.
Overview of Cepharanthine
The Company wishes to clarify that it is not making any express or implied claims regarding cepharanthine's ability to treat, eliminate, or cure Monkeypox (Mpox) or any other infectious diseases at this time.
About PD-001 (Enteric-coated Oral Cepharanthine)
Cepharanthine is a natural product that has been an approved drug in Japan for over 70 years, successfully treating a range of acute and chronic diseases. Clinical research has revealed that cepharanthine possesses multiple pharmacological properties, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, immuno-regulatory, anti-cancer, anti-viral, and anti-parasitic effects. However, its historically low oral bioavailability has hindered the realization of its full clinical potential.
Enhanced Formulation
In comparison to generic cepharanthine, PD-001 has demonstrated significantly improved oral bioavailability in both rodent and non-rodent models, meaning it is absorbed more effectively. These results support the development of an orally administered formulation, eliminating the need for frequent intravenous dosing to maintain therapeutic drug levels in circulation. Sairiyo aims to create an effective oral therapeutic that could enhance outcomes for infectious diseases and oncology applications.
Patent Protection
PD-001 is safeguarded by US Patent US10576077, which is set to expire on March 23, 2036.
About Sairiyo Therapeutics Inc.
Sairiyo Therapeutics Inc., owned 51% by PharmDrug Inc. and 49% by PharmaTher, is dedicated to advancing the clinical development of an improved and patented enteric-coated orally bioavailable formulation of cepharanthine (PD-001) as a potential treatment for Medical Countermeasures and oncology.
About PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.
PharmaTher Holdings Ltd. (OTCQB: PHRRF) (CSE: PHRM) is committed to developing and commercializing KETARX™ (Ketamine) to address global unmet medical needs in anesthesia, sedation, pain management, mental health, and neurological conditions. PharmaTher holds a 49% stake in Sairiyo Therapeutics Inc., which is focused on advancing the clinical development of an improved and patented enteric-coated orally bioavailable formulation of cepharanthine (PD-001) for medical countermeasures and cancer treatment. For more details, visit PharmaTher.com.
For further information about PharmaTher, please reach out to:
Fabio Chianelli
Chief Executive Officer
PharmaTher Holdings Ltd.
Tel: 1-888-846-3171
Email: info@pharmather.com
Website: www.pharmather.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is cepharanthine?
Cepharanthine is a natural compound known for its various pharmacological effects and has been used in Japan for over 70 years to treat several diseases.
What is the significance of Sairiyo's discoveries?
Sairiyo's research highlights cepharanthine's potential to bind to monkeypox proteins, which could be crucial in developing effective treatments.
How has cepharanthine been tested in research?
Studies have shown that cepharanthine has significant binding affinities to target proteins associated with the Mpox virus, indicating its potential therapeutic role.
What clinical studies are currently underway?
Sairiyo is set to begin a Phase 1 clinical study for PD-001, exploring its potential as a treatment for medical countermeasures.
How does PD-001 differ from regular cepharanthine?
PD-001 has enhanced oral bioavailability compared to generic cepharanthine, which may improve its therapeutic effectiveness.
