J&J’s experimental dengue capsule prevents an infection in mice, monkeys

By Julie Steenhuysen

CHICAGO (Reuters) – An experimental capsule for dengue developed by Johnson & Johnson proved efficient towards all 4 forms of the virus in mice and prevented an infection from two varieties in monkeys, in accordance with information printed on Wednesday.

The promising early animal outcomes showing within the journal Nature add hope for what might grow to be the primary antiviral remedy for a mosquito-borne illness that causes 96 million symptomatic infections and 10,000 deaths annually.

The corporate mentioned in a press release it has already accomplished an early-stage trial of the experimental remedy, referred to as JNJ-1802, in wholesome human volunteers, which confirmed it to be secure and nicely tolerated. J&J is now testing the drug in a randomized Part II scientific trial.

Research in lab animals confirmed prior work displaying the drug blocks the motion of two viral proteins, stopping the virus from making copies of itself.

The corporate mentioned in a press release it goals to develop the drug as each a remedy for dengue and to stop infections.

(Reporting by Julie Steenhuysen; Modifying by Invoice Berkrot)