Born out of a collaboration between the WEL Research Institute (WELRI), UCLouvain and UNamur, Intercept Bio is developing a novel approach to preventing viral respiratory infections.
Research led by David Alsteens (WELRI-UCLouvain) and Stéphane Vincent (UNamur) resulted in the development of a patented "decoy" molecule that prevents respiratory viruses from attaching to human cells as they enter the nasal passages. In mouse models, the technology demonstrated activity against several major respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza viruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Established to bring this innovation closer to patients, Intercept Bio will formulate the molecule as a nasal spray and advance its preclinical and clinical development towards commercialisation.
