REP 9 has potent activity against influenza when given either in prophylaxis or as therapy. In tissue culture, REP 9 showed potent activity against over 10 strains of influenza tested to date, including H1N1, H3N2 (similar to the 1918 Spanish flu and the 1968 Hong Kong flu, respectively) and influenza B, demonstrating its potential application against other emergent viruses like avian flu H5N1.
REP 9’s mode of action is distinct from the marketed drugs Tamiflu and Relenza. REP 9 prevents the entry of viruses into cells by targeting a portion of the virus common to all influenza viruses. This novel mechanism of action promises to prevent the development of drug resistant strains of influenza.
Recent small scale outbreaks of avian flu in humans have highlighted the potential danger of emergent viruses. According to the company, REP 9 can easily be produced in large quantities and could become an effective tool in the global response to the next pandemic.