Development of Broad-Spectrum Antiviral and Antitumor Therapeutics from Cobra Toxin (NT3) for Veterinary and Human Use

Introduction: CYGNOS BioTech is pioneering the development of broad-spectrum antiviral (PVX) and antitumor (MMX) biologic products for both veterinary and human applications. Our innovative technology has led to the issuance of nine patents covering composition, process, and usage. The US FDA has granted two Investigational New Animal Drug Applications for 1) a non-specific antiviral drug for companion animals and 2) an antitumor drug for stage II and III canine oral malignant melanoma.

Methods: PVX and MMX are derived from cobra venom toxin (NT3) through fractionation followed by proprietary chemical processes to achieve detoxification and specific biologic activities.

Results: Preliminary data suggest that PVX's antiviral activity targets host-cell mechanisms rather than the virus. PVX inhibits Protein Kinase activities, potentially affecting cellular pathways related to transcription and translation. Clinical studies in dogs, cats, and horses demonstrate significant antiviral and antitumor effects without adverse events. PVX appears effective for most viral infections, including enveloped RNA and DNA viruses such as canine distemper virus (paramyxovirus), Human and Feline Herpes viruses, and Feline Corona virus causing Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP).

Conclusions: The global community faces increasing threats from emerging zoonotic diseases and bio-terrorism activities. The potential for a new pandemic or the release of genetically engineered viruses is a real and devastating concern. CYGNOS BioTech’s technology serves as a potential platform to treat infectious diseases, applicable across veterinary, public health, and military sectors. The availability of a drug capable of addressing emerging and genetically engineered viruses as a first line of defense could have a profound impact.