by Ryu Hyunseok
Published 14 May.2020 10:24(KST)
[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Hyun-seok] Nivek announced on the 14th that significant progress has been made in the development of a peptide-based novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) treatment (code name NIPEP-ACOV) in collaboration with a Swiss biotech company, and that they have successfully confirmed the initial therapeutic effects, thereby officially advancing the development of the treatment.
A company official stated, "Due to a confidentiality agreement, we cannot disclose the name, but the biotech company conducting joint research with Nivek is a company that develops new drugs in collaboration with companies such as Gilead and Genentech," adding, "It is a world-class biotech company that has conducted clinical research in Europe and the United States not only on infectious diseases but also on inflammatory diseases."
He continued, "There was uncertainty about whether the development of the COVID-19 treatment would proceed until effective data on efficacy was secured, but with the favorable research results this time, we are now able to actively proceed with the development of the treatment."
In the joint research, Nivek confirmed that the COVID-19 treatment NIPEP-ACOV not only has antiviral effects but also significantly reduces TNF-a and interleukin-6, which are known as the main causes of cytokine storms. Preliminary toxicity tests have also been completed, verifying its safety.
Among the COVID-19 treatments known to be under development so far, none have simultaneously possessed both antiviral effects and cytokine suppression effects. The treatment developed by Nivek is said by the company to have excellent efficacy compared to treatments being developed by competitors, as it can provide both effects simultaneously.
A Nivek official said, "With the surge of COVID-19 infections in Europe, European pharmaceutical companies have shown great interest, and we plan to proceed with preclinical research and clinical trials," adding, "Based on the joint research results with the Swiss biotech company on the COVID-19 treatment candidate NIPEP-ACOV, we plan to conduct research with various clinical research institutions, including the Industry-Academic Cooperation Foundation of Seoul National University."
He further stated, "Since there is still no effective treatment worldwide, and the development of treatments and vaccines is urgent, the research team is pursuing the development of the treatment with a sense of mission," adding, "We will strive to complete preclinical studies and proceed to clinical trials as soon as possible."
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