BioLeaders Begins Joint Research on COVID-19 Treatment with Seoul Asan Hospital and Other University Hospitals

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunseok Yoo] BioLeaders announced on the 26th that it will begin joint research with the infectious disease departments of Seoul Asan Hospital, Kyung Hee University Hospital, and Chung-Ang University Hospital to develop a treatment for the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19). The company signed a contract with the clinical research organization (CRO) C&R Research on the 19th for the development of the COVID-19 treatment. Contract manufacturing organization (CMO) responsibilities are handled by Kolmar Korea.

BioLeaders is using the viral disease treatment 'BLS-H01,' which has obtained approval for a Phase 3 clinical trial plan (IND) targeting cervical epithelial dysplasia, for COVID-19 treatment development through drug repurposing. During the 2013 Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak, experiments with poly-gamma-glutamic acid (γ-PGA), the key substance of BLS-H01, showed that the experimental group administered with it exhibited over 60% greater viral infection suppression compared to the control group.

BLS-H01 binds to TLR4 (a natural immune receptor) in the body, promoting the secretion of interferon-beta (IFN-β) and other substances. Through this, it activates the immune system and suppresses or treats infections caused by specific bacteria or viruses.

The joint research team stated, "When RNA mutations occur in viruses like COVID-19, treatment of new viruses using the corresponding vaccines becomes impossible," and added, "BLS-H01 utilizes autoimmune functions, emerging as an alternative solution." They further noted, "It is expected that the immune regulatory function of poly-gamma-glutamic acid can also be utilized in the 'cytokine storm' phenomenon, an excessive immune substance secretion reaction recently occurring domestically."

On the 4th, BioLeaders donated 'PGA Soft Capsules,' a health functional food using poly-gamma-glutamic acid (γ-PGA), the key substance of BLS-H01, to manage the immunity of medical staff in Daegu and Gyeongbuk. Large purchase orders for 'PGA Soft Capsules' as employee welfare items are also continuing from major domestic companies such as Company S.