STAQ Pharma is working with the nonprofit scientific research organization IAVI to provide support services for the production of an innovative intranasal spray targeting COVID-19. This multi-partner project aims to produce a miniprotein anti-viral blocker delivered via an intranasal device. STAQ Pharma’s expertise in aseptic processing and experience with similar devices make them a key player in this project.
Working alongside IAVI and SK bioscience, STAQ Pharma will handle the fill-finish operations for the intranasal spray. The initial fill finish will take place in Denver, Colorado, utilizing STAQ\’s cutting-edge 503B Outsourcing Facility, with the eventual production at STAQ’s contract manufacturing facility in Columbus, Ohio.
The therapy, known as IPD-52520, is poised for a Phase l trial in early 2025. It’s designed to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from infecting people and being transmitted, a goal that would be a significant step in COVID-19 prevention. IPD-52520 was developed at the Institute for Protein Design, University of Washington School of Medicine.
“We are delighted to be part of the team that is developing this drug product and taking it through trials. We have a unique capability to work with sterile ophthalmic and nasal dosing systems created by URSATEC. We hope that this trial is successful and brings about a meaningful change in COVID-19 prevention across the globe,” said Joe Bagan, CEO of STAQ Pharma.