Updated on 03/17/2023 13:48
In the search for an antidote to dengue fever, an active ingredient has been shown to be effective in animal experiments.
A drug against dengue fever that has been tested in both monkeys and mice has achieved “very encouraging” results, said Marnix Van Loock, scientific director for emerging pathogens at drugmaker Janssen, part of the pharmaceutical group Johnson & Johnson.
In rhesus monkeys, a high dose of the drug JNJ-1802 “completely blocked virus replication,” Van Loock told AFP. Viral RNA was detected in animals from a control group between the third and seventh day after infection.
The active ingredient was tested in monkeys for its preventive properties against the two most common virus types, but not for treatment. It has been tested in mice for both prevention and treatment against all four types of dengue – with successful results, Van Loock said.
Possible use of the active ingredient unclear
The active ingredient builds on research results published two years ago. These had shown that a preparation can effectively prevent the virus from multiplying in cell cultures and mice by preventing the interaction between two proteins.
Van Loock did not want to say when the drug could be ready for use. Researchers have yet to provide safety data from the animal studies before proceeding with human studies — including field studies in dengue-affected areas.
The dengue virus is transmitted by mosquitoes primarily in the tropics and subtropics. Tens of millions of people around the world become infected every year. Since there are no direct treatment options, the focus so far has been on reducing transmission.
Vaccines against the dengue virus
There are currently two vaccines: one is only used in some countries and is only effective against one type of virus. Last December, another vaccine was approved in the EU, which is also approved in the UK and Indonesia.
Dengue fever occurs mainly in Central and South America, in South and Southeast Asia and in Africa. However, due to globalization and climate change, the viral disease is on the rise worldwide. The symptoms of the disease are similar to those of severe flu. In severe cases, internal bleeding and death can also occur. Children are particularly at risk. (dpa/tar)
© AFP