Biotech Red Queen launches with $55M for versatile antivirals

Apple Tree Partners, a venture firm, has invested $55 million in Red Queen Therapeutics, a new biotechnology company focused on developing antiviral treatments effective against multiple virus families. Red Queen is targeting infectious pathogens such as COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). The company has already progressed a COVID-19 antiviral through Phase 1 testing and has received U.S. government funding to develop a pan-influenza drug.

The technology behind Red Queen Therapeutics is based on research by Harvard Medical School professor Loren Walensky, who co-founded the company with Apple Tree Partners. Their innovation involves the creation of stapled lipopeptides designed to block viral fusion, thereby preventing viruses from entering cells. This approach differs from most therapeutics, which act after a virus has already infected a cell. According to Mark Mitchnick, CEO of Red Queen and ATP Venture Partner, their candidates can be used both pre- and post-exposure as an actual therapeutic.

A significant advantage of Red Queen's method is its potential effectiveness across various virus mutations. This is particularly relevant for variants of viruses like the Omicron strain of the coronavirus. The company's lead candidate, RQ-01, has undergone preclinical studies and a Phase 1 trial in individuals with mildly symptomatic COVID-19. Administered as a nasal spray, RQ-01 showed a tendency for faster clearance of SARS-CoV-2 infection by the fifth day compared to a placebo, with similar side effects. Although the trial with 67 participants wasn't statistically conclusive for the drug's efficacy, the data presented at the American Society for Microbiology's annual meeting and the preclinical results published in Nature Communications were promising.

Red Queen's antiviral treatments are designed to complement vaccines rather than replace them. They are envisioned as a first line of defense against emerging variants of COVID-19 and influenza. These treatments could be stored at room temperature for extended periods and adapted for various administration methods, including inhalers, injections, and nasal sprays.

The Series A funding from Apple Tree Partners will enable Red Queen to advance its pipeline, which includes programs targeting RSV, influenza, and herpes. The company plans to conduct a Phase 2 study of RQ-01 in individuals with weakened immune systems. Potential participants could be those who have undergone transplant surgery, are on immunosuppressive drugs, or have received CAR-T cell therapy. While the trial criteria are yet to be finalized, the focus will be on this vulnerable population.

Additionally, the U.S. government, through the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, has provided funding for the preclinical development of a pan-influenza drug. This program aims to address H5N1, or avian influenza, which has become a significant public health concern due to ongoing outbreaks in U.S. livestock. Results from the preclinical studies are expected to be available next year.

In summary, Red Queen Therapeutics, with substantial backing from Apple Tree Partners and U.S. government funding, is at the forefront of developing innovative antiviral treatments. Their approach, based on groundbreaking research, holds the promise of providing effective defenses against a broad spectrum of viral threats, addressing both current and future public health challenges.