Key Points

• New approach for treating viral infections with polyamine transport inhibitors
• UCF’s patented polyamine transport inhibitor compound blocked SARS-Cov2 virus infection in vitro
• Additional polyamine transport inhibitor compounds are being tested for antiviral activity

Abstract

Researchers at the University of Central Florida and Boston University are developing polyamine transport inhibitors for use as antiviral compounds. Polyamines are required for a variety of viral processes including replication, protein synthesis, and virus-host interactions. Many viruses, including coronaviruses, have been shown to be sensitive to polyamine depletion.

While targeting polyamine metabolism is a known antiviral strategy, previous studies have not focused on the use of polyamine transport inhibitors. UCF's approach is to use polyamine transport inhibitors to deplete viruses of their polyamine resources.

Technical Details

Polyamine transport inhibitors are a potential new approach for treating viral infections. UCF’s patented polyamine transport inhibitor compound was shown to block SARS-Cov2 virus infection in vitro, suggesting the virus may be dependent on polyamine import for survival. The compound is readily water soluble and is a hygroscopic salt that can be stored at 4 degrees Celsius. Additional studies focusing on polyamine transport inhibitor compounds as antivirals are underway.

Partnering Opportunity

The research team is looking for partners to develop the technology further for commercialization.

Stage of Development

Preclinical.

Benefit

• New approach for treating viral infections

Market Application

• Antiviral therapy