Is ViroPharma trying to discover treatments for SARS?
Yes. We are currently evaluating compounds from our chemical library for potential inhibitors of the recently identified coronavirus that is believed to cause severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is an RNA virus, a virus group for which we have substantial expertise in antiviral drug discovery and development. We are collaborating with the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) in Frederick, Maryland on this program. USAMRIID and ViroPharma have together established a high capacity testing assay and are evaluating compounds provided by us in an effort to discover specific antiviral compounds that prevent SARS-CoV from attacking healthy human cells. Does ViroPharma have a bio-defense program? Yes. We are working with the government and others in the area of biodefense and initiated a program to discover and advance potential antiviral product candidates that address National Institutes of Health “category A viruses,” w
