Technology ID
TAB-3468

Identification and Use of Niclosamide Analogs as Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Infection

E-Numbers
E-234-2020-0
Lead Inventor
Huang, Wenwei (NCATS)
Co-Inventors
Shamim, Khalida (NCATS)
Zheng, Wei (NCATS)
Chen, Catherine (NCATS)
Xu, Xin (NCATS)
Wang, Amy (NCATS)
Hu, Xin (NCATS)
Shah, Pranav (NCATS)
Applications
Therapeutics
Research Materials
Therapeutic Areas
Infectious Disease
Lead IC
NCATS
ICs
NCATS
This technology includes the identification and use of niclosamide analogs and prodrugs for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In-vitro studies have found niclosamide, an old anthelminthic drug, to be potent and effective against Covid-19. But the broad antiviral effect of niclosamide is offset by the low solubility of the drug, leading to poor oral absorption. The niclosamide analogs and prodrugs included in this technology have better in vitro physicochemical properties. Also, these analogs were comparable to niclosamide in the in-vitro 3D models of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Pharmacokinetic studies of a prodrug conducted in mice and hamsters has shown better absorbtion of the active niclosamide, with higher concentrations of niclosamide in both plasma and lungs (the primary site of COVID-19 disease manifestation). The oral bio-availability of niclosamide is greatly enhanced with this prodrug.
Commercial Applications
Further clinical work could establish the niclosamide analogs and prodrug as new treatments for SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Competitive Advantages
Despite poor solubility, niclosamide is showing promise for the treatment of COVID-19. The niclosamide analogs and prodrug included in this technology have increased solubility and oral absorption, making them suitable for further studies.
Licensing Contact:
Vepa, Suryanarayana
sury.vepa@nih.gov