Antiva Biosciences Forms Scientific and Development Advisory Board

In Redwood City, California, Antiva Biosciences, a biopharmaceutical company innovating topical treatments for high-risk infections and pre-cancerous lesions caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) in women, has recently unveiled the creation of a new scientific and development advisory board. This board is composed of leading experts from academia and industry, specializing in women's health and virology. The advisory board's inaugural members also bring extensive experience in drug discovery, development, and the commercialization of new therapeutics.

Antiva's CEO, Kristine Ball, highlighted the importance of the newly formed advisory board, emphasizing its role in guiding the development of ABI-2280, a topical agent aimed at treating high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN 2,3) and high-risk HPV infections. Ball noted that the advisory team's expertise would be crucial in navigating the scientific and clinical pathways required for the regulatory approval of ABI-2280.

Currently, Antiva is conducting two phase 1/2 clinical trials for ABI-2280, targeting high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and high-risk HPV infections that have the potential to progress to cancer. ABI-2280 is effective across all HPV genotypes by preventing HPV replication and inducing apoptosis in HPV-infected cells. The drug has been formulated as a vaginal insert, facilitating self-administration and broad distribution, thus enhancing its potential impact on patient care globally.

The advisory board members include:

1. Dr. Constance A. Benson - An esteemed clinical and translational researcher with a focus on drug development and clinical trials in virology. She holds a professorship at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and serves as the Co-Director of the UCSD Antiviral Research Center.

2. Dr. J. Thomas Cox - An OB/GYN specialist with extensive knowledge of HPV and its management in women. A past president of the American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP), Dr. Cox has contributed significantly to national guidelines and advisory boards on HPV and gynecologic cancers.

3. Dr. William "Bill" Lee - With over 37 years in the pharmaceutical industry, Dr. Lee’s experience includes leading research at Gilead Sciences, where he was involved in the development and launch of numerous commercial products.

4. Dr. Richard Whitley - A prominent expert in antiviral therapies, Dr. Whitley serves as a Distinguished Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine. He has an extensive publication record and has chaired important committees, including the NIH-NIAID COVID-19 Data Safety and Monitoring Board.

5. Dr. Thomas C. Wright, Jr. - A Professor Emeritus at Columbia University, Dr. Wright is involved in clinical trials focused on diagnostic and risk-assessment tests for cervical disease. He has spearheaded guideline development for managing cytologic abnormalities and continues to practice as a gynecological pathologist.

HPV is a highly prevalent virus, with nearly all sexually active individuals contracting it at some stage. While many infections are transient, persistent infections can lead to several types of cancer, most notably cervical cancer. Despite the introduction of prophylactic vaccines, the low uptake and limited access in various regions mean HPV-related diseases remain a significant health issue. According to the World Health Organization, cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women worldwide, with substantial morbidity and mortality rates.

Antiva Biosciences is determined to address this unmet medical need with its leading drug candidate, ABI-2280. As a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical entity, Antiva continues to focus on developing innovative, topical treatments for HPV-related diseases, offering hope for better management and outcomes in affected women.

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