Sirona Biochem Corp. (TSX-V: SBM) (FSE: ZSB) (OTC: SRBCF) is thrilled to share the exciting results of its research collaboration with the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (“ICGEB”) to further develop its antiviral library of compounds. This partnership has enabled Sirona to make significant progress in its antiviral research and development efforts.
Sirona and the ICGEB have joined forces to screen a library of 20 compounds produced by Sirona’s subsidiary TFChem as potential inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2. Under the direction of Dr Alessandro Marcello, an internationally recognized expert in Human Virology, the Laboratory of Molecular Virology in Trieste, Italy successfully identified 6 compounds exhibiting antiviral activity. Among the 6, one showed particular promise. However, the current selective index of the compounds is not sufficient to choose a lead compound. To address this, TFChem will be expanding their library by adding 5-10 new compounds, which the ICGEB will begin testing in the next two months.
Dr. Geraldine Deliencourt-Godefroy, Chief Scientific Officer, reports that the results from their initial testing of anti-viral compounds to fight SARS-CoV-2 are promising. As their projects (TFC-039, TFC-1067 and TFC-1394) have progressed, modifications have been made to the lead molecules, which is normal in the drug discovery process. With optimistic anticipation, they are creating their next batch of compounds and are confident they are on the right track to generate a successful new anti-viral compound.
As we continue to make headway on our portfolio of projects, we are thrilled to keep our shareholders up-to-date on our progress! We are pushing forward on all fronts, and can’t wait to share the exciting developments that lie ahead.
About the International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology
The International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) is an independent intergovernmental organisation devoted to research, training and technology transfer in the field of Life Sciences and Biotechnology. Established in 1983 as a special project of UNIDO, ICGEB has headquarters in Trieste, Italy and additional laboratories in New Delhi, India and Cape Town, South Africa, and is supported by almost 70 Member States. With a vision to be the world’s leading intergovernmental Organisation in the field, ICGEB is dedicated to promoting sustainable global development through scientific research and capacity building. All funds generated are reinvested back into the organisation to further its mission.
The Molecular Virology Group in Trieste has been instrumental in the response to the COVID-19 pandemic, providing a range of essential services to ICGEB Member countries. From formulating protocols for SARS-CoV-2 molecular and serological diagnostics, to creating online tutorials and providing reagents to develop low-cost in-house assays, this group has been integral in the fight against the virus. They have also sequenced the COVID-19 viruses for the first time in many countries, making the data available to the scientific community. In addition, they have developed a pipeline for testing antivirals against SARS-CoV-2, allowing for the discovery of novel drug candidates.
About Sirona Biochem Corp.
Sirona Biochem is revolutionizing the world of cosmetic ingredients and drug discovery with its proprietary platform technology. By stabilizing carbohydrate molecules, they are able to improve the efficacy and safety of their compounds, and then patent them for maximum revenue potential. It’s a revolutionary step forward in the world of cosmetics and drugs.
Sirona’s innovative compounds have been embraced by leading companies across the world and the company has been rewarded with milestone fees, licensing fees, and ongoing royalty payments. Their laboratory, TFChem, located in France, has received multiple national awards and grants from the European Union and French government for their groundbreaking research.