Monash University, 60P Australia to develop Fenretinide drug for dengue fever

A novel screening approach has been developed by Monash University researchers, led by Professor David Jans in the Department of Biochemistry, to identify new classes of antiviral drugs.

Professor Jans said: "Our screening approach focuses on a specific interaction between a virus and its host during an infection. This interaction is the critical point at which the virus accesses and takes over the control centre (the nucleus) of the host cell."

"This screening approach enables us to identify drugs that specifically target the virus in this interaction so we can stop it spreading the infection in the body."

According to Jans, the approach targeted at dengue virus made it possible to identify Fenretinide as a drug with potential to treat dengue. Earlier the drug was investigated for use in the treatment of cancer.

60P CEO Dr Geoffrey Dow said: "60P is delighted to partner with an organisation like Monash that shares our vision in taking first class research and translating it into new and affordable medicines that treat and prevent neglected diseases such as dengue."