Latest news with #HerpesSimplexVirus
The Independent
27-06-2025
- Health
- The Independent
The shocking speed at which cold sore virus hijacks human DNA
A new study is the first to prove that the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1) deliberately reshapes the human genome and reorganises infected cells within an hour of infection. The virus compacts and densifies human DNA to access host genes essential for its reproduction, a previously unknown mechanism of manipulation. Researchers discovered that blocking a single host cell enzyme, topoisomerase I, completely prevented the virus from rearranging the human genome and stopped infection in cell culture. This finding offers a potential new therapeutic target to control HSV-1, which affects nearly four billion people worldwide. HSV-1, while often causing benign cold sores, can lead to severe complications in rare cases and has been linked to dementia in older adults.
Los Angeles Times
24-06-2025
- Health
- Los Angeles Times
Navigating Viral Encephalitis and Connections to HSV, West Nile, and Rabies
When the brain gets inflamed, every second counts. Encephalitis symptoms start with flu-like symptoms and can rapidly progress to severe neurological issues. Swelling of the brain tissue can cause serious neurological symptoms and in some cases devastating outcomes. Encephalitis is a serious condition that can be life threatening if not treated promptly. Medical care and hospital admission are often required for management and monitoring. While many viruses can cause encephalitis, a few stand out for their prevalence and clinical significance: Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), West Nile Virus (WNV) which is spread by mosquitoes, and the rabies virus. Each of these pathogens requires a different and rapid approach to give patients the best chance of recovery. Encephalitis can present with a wide range of symptoms and outcomes from mild confusion to long term neurological deficits or even death. Understanding the targeted management strategies for these infections is key to navigating this medical emergency. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) the same virus that causes cold sores is the leading cause of sporadic viral encephalitis in the US. The initial phase of HSV encephalitis is often acute with symptoms developing rapidly and requiring urgent attention. When it gets into the brain it can cause severe damage quickly. The stakes are high with an HSV infection so immediate empiric treatment is an absolute necessity often started based on clinical suspicion alone before diagnostic tests can confirm the cause [5]. Certain people such as those with weakened immune systems are more likely to get HSV encephalitis. Symptoms may include fever, headache, confusion and can progress to more severe complications including loss of consciousness. Other symptoms can include seizures, personality changes and focal neurological deficits. Severe cases can result in loss of function or even loss of consciousness. The cornerstone of treatment is the antiviral medication acyclovir given intravenously at 10 mg/kg every 8 hours for 14-21 days [2]. Treatments may include additional medications such as corticosteroids to reduce brain swelling and supportive care as needed. The course of treatment can take several weeks depending on the severity of the illness and the person. The urgency cannot be overstated. Any delay in starting acyclovir is associated with higher risk of death and permanent neurological damage. To put it in perspective, randomized studies have shown that the mortality rate with acyclovir treatment is 25% compared to 59% in those who did not receive it [6]. Long term complications can include memory loss and other cognitive impairments so individualized care for each person is essential. Diagnosing HSV encephalitis involves a few key tests. A lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is essential. Diagnostic workup may include blood tests for markers of infection or immune response. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on the CSF can detect HSV's genetic material with incredible accuracy, with sensitivity and specificity rates of 96-98% and 95-99% respectively [2]. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred imaging technique as it can show characteristic inflammation often in the temporal lobes of the brain. An electroencephalogram (EEG) which measures the brain's electrical activity can also provide clues sometimes showing a pattern known as lateralized periodic discharges that points to HSV. Steps to prevent or manage HSV encephalitis include taking precautions to avoid exposure and seeking medical attention if symptoms develop. As the most common mosquito borne cause of viral encephalitis in the US, West Nile virus, a type of flavivirus, is a significant public health challenge. West Nile virus is a form of infectious encephalitis primarily caused by viruses transmitted through mosquito bites. The incidence of severe neuroinvasive disease is higher in older adults and people with weakened immune systems who are more likely to get serious forms of the illness. There is no antiviral medication proven effective against West Nile virus. Management is focused on supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent complications. Supportive measures may include: Additional treatments may include various supportive therapies. These may include physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy to help people regain lost functions. Recovery steps can take time and depend on the severity of the illness and the person. Diagnosis is confirmed by detecting specific IgM antibodies in the CSF or serum which indicates recent infection. PCR testing can also be used. While MRI findings can vary, involvement of deep brain structures like the basal ganglia or thalamus may suggest WNV encephalitis [3]. The acute phase of the disease can be serious and require urgent medical attention. Neurological complications may affect speech and require therapy as part of rehabilitation. Outcomes vary widely; each person's recovery is unique and people may experience different long term effects so individualized care is essential. Rabies is perhaps the most feared form of viral encephalitis and for good reason. Rabies virus is a well known cause of encephalitis; it is one of the infectious agents that causes encephalitis and specifically rabies virus can cause encephalitis by invading the central nervous system. Once symptoms appear the disease is nearly 100% fatal. This grim prognosis makes prevention the only option as rabies encephalitis is a serious and acute neurological emergency. The focus of management is entirely on post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) a series of interventions given to someone who may have been exposed to the rabies virus from an animal bite or of encephalitis due to rabies may include fever, headache, confusion, agitation, muscle spasms, difficulty swallowing and loss of consciousness. Other symptoms may include loss of coordination, hallucinations and paralysis. Loss of consciousness is a serious sign indicating severe neurological involvement. In advanced cases a person with rabies encephalitis will require hospitalization and the illness can progress rapidly over days to weeks and be fatal without urgent medical care. According to the Infectious Diseases Society of America guidelines PEP is a multi-step process that must be initiated immediately [1]. The first and most critical step is to thoroughly clean the wound with soap and water to reduce the amount of virus at the site of exposure. This is the key action to take to prevent the virus from causing infection. Next Rabies Immune Globulin (RIG) is given. A dose of 20 IU/kg is injected into and around the wound to neutralize the virus before it can enter the nervous system. The final component is a series of vaccinations. The human diploid cell vaccine or purified chick embryo cell vaccine is given in four doses on days 0, 3, 7 and 14 after exposure. This regimen stimulates the body to produce its own antibodies against the virus providing long term protection. As the World Health Organization emphasizes timely and appropriate PEP is highly effective in preventing rabies and can be life saving for the person exposed. Regardless of the suspected cause, certain principles of care apply to all patients with encephalitis. Continuous monitoring for complications like ICP, seizures and respiratory failure is essential as these can arise quickly and require immediate attention [1]. Clinicians must have a high index of suspicion for encephalitis in any patient presenting with unexplained altered behavior, new onset seizures or focal neurological deficits. Not all encephalitis is caused by an infection. Autoimmune encephalitis such as anti-NMDAR encephalitis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy brain cells. This is often associated with specific antibodies or tumors. Blood tests to identify these antibodies can help distinguish autoimmune from infectious encephalitis and guide treatment. Autoimmune encephalitis can mimic viral forms and requires a completely different treatment approach involving immunotherapy. This highlights the need for a broad differential diagnosis [7]. Because of the deadly potential of untreated HSV, standard practice is to start empiric IV acyclovir in most suspected cases of encephalitis while diagnostic test results are pending [4]. This covers the most common treatable cause without delay. Managing viral encephalitis is a race against time that depends on rapid recognition and etiology specific interventions. For HSV the life saving treatment is urgent acyclovir. For West Nile virus supportive care is key to guiding patients through the illness. For rabies the battle is won before it even starts with post-exposure prophylaxis being the only defense against an otherwise fatal disease. Mistakes or delays in diagnosis and treatment can lead to irreversible brain damage or death so swift decisive action is required in every suspected case. For more information resources like the Encephalitis Society offer valuable resources for patients and healthcare professionals. [1] Tunkel, A. R., Glaser, C. A., Bloch, K. C., Sejvar, J. J., Marra, C. M., Roos, K. L., Hartman, B. J., Kaplan, S. L., Scheld, W. M., Whitley, R. J., & Infectious Diseases Society of America (2008). The management of encephalitis: clinical practice guidelines by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Clinical infectious diseases : an official publication of the Infectious Diseases Society of America, 47(3), 303–327. [2] Halperin J. J. (2017). Diagnosis and management of acute encephalitis. Handbook of clinical neurology, 140, 337–347. [3] Kumar R. (2020). Understanding and managing acute encephalitis. F1000Research, 9, F1000 Faculty Rev-60. [4] Ellul, M., & Solomon, T. (2018). Acute encephalitis - diagnosis and management. Clinical medicine (London, England), 18(2), 155–159. [5] Alam, A. M., Easton, A., Nicholson, T. R., Irani, S. R., Davies, N. W. S., Solomon, T., & Michael, B. D. (2023). Encephalitis: diagnosis, management and recent advances in the field of encephalitides. Postgraduate medical journal, 99(1174), 815–825. [6] Abboud, H., Probasco, J. C., Irani, S., Ances, B., Benavides, D. R., Bradshaw, M., Christo, P. P., Dale, R. C., Fernandez-Fournier, M., Flanagan, E. P., Gadoth, A., George, P., Grebenciucova, E., Jammoul, A., Lee, S. T., Li, Y., Matiello, M., Morse, A. M., Rae-Grant, A., Rojas, G., … Autoimmune Encephalitis Alliance Clinicians Network (2021). Autoimmune encephalitis: proposed best practice recommendations for diagnosis and acute management. Journal of neurology, neurosurgery, and psychiatry, 92(7), 757–768. [7] Graus, F., Titulaer, M. J., Balu, R., Benseler, S., Bien, C. G., Cellucci, T., Cortese, I., Dale, R. C., Gelfand, J. M., Geschwind, M., Glaser, C. A., Honnorat, J., Höftberger, R., Iizuka, T., Irani, S. R., Lancaster, E., Leypoldt, F., Prüss, H., Rae-Grant, A., Reindl, M., … Dalmau, J. (2016). A clinical approach to diagnosis of autoimmune encephalitis. The Lancet. Neurology, 15(4), 391–404.
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Shilajit: What are its benefits and who needs it
Shilajit is a natural substance found mainly in the Himalayas. It is a phytocomplex- a bioactive found in plants, that has been formed for centuries by the gradual decomposition of certain plants by the action of microorganisms. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Known in northern India as salajit, shilajatu, mimie or mummiyo, it is a black-brown powder formed in the mountains between India and Nepal, Russia, Tibet, and north of Chile. For years, shilajit has been used in as a rejuvenator and anti-aging compound. It is composed of fulvic acid, ellagic acids, fatty acids, resins, latex, polyphenols, phenolic lipids, amino acids and more. While the substance is very popular, what are its benefits and who needs to use it? Find out below! Benefits of Shilajit Image credits: X It is antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Humic substances including fulvic acid account for 60-80% of the compound, along with some amount of DBPs. As per a published in the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, it reduces oxidative stress and enhances antioxidant capacity. A published in the National Library of Medicine revealed that shilajit could modulate neuronal function and promote neuritogenic effects. The fulvic acid in it is known to prevent the aggregation of tau protein which is linked to Alzheimer's. One of the most popular benefits of Shilajit is its ability to increase testosterone. Purified shilajit, was evaluated in people between the ages 45-55 in terms of its effects on male androgenic hormone and it was found that in 90 days it significantly increased total testosterone, free testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone, as per a published in the National Library of Medicine. Shilajit also has antiviral properties. It is known to have in vitro effects against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). It also improves the immune system with its folvic content which suppresses the activity of HCMV, RSV, and human-acquired immune deficiency virus (HIV), as per a published in ScienceDirect. It is known to heal bone fractures and strengthen bones. A clinical trial conducted in Iran revealed the shilajit accelerated bone repair after a tibia fracture surgery. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Another study indicated that it had positive effects on femur bone fracture repair. Who needs Shilajit? Image credits: X According to the benefits of shilajit, people with low energy, low immunity, lack of bone health, fertility issues and memory issues should consume the compound. However, it is better to get medical advice before consuming any kind of supplement. People who are on medications for hypertension or have hormone-sensitive conditions must consult a doctor about taking shilajit and its dosage as it could interact with the medicines. Additionally, it is important to buy dietary supplements like these from trusted sources as unregulated products may have heavy metals and mycotoxins. Excessive dosage of shilajit is also known to have side effects such as digestive issues, low blood pressure, hormonal changes, iron overload and more. Lastly, prolonged doses of shilajit are known to possibly lead to liver toxicity which can be harmful in the long run.
Associated Press
30-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Theralase(R) 1Q2025 Financial Statements
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - May 30, 2025) - Theralase® Technologies Inc. (TSXV: TLT) (OTCQB: TLTFF) ('Theralase®" or the 'Company'), a clinical stage pharmaceutical company pioneering light, radiation, sound and drug-activated therapeutics for the treatment of cancer, bacteria and viruses has released the Company's unaudited interim consolidated 1Q2025 financial statements ('Financial Statements'). Theralase® will be hosting a conference call on Monday June 9 th, 2025 at 11:00 am ET, which will include a presentation of the financial and operational results for the fiscal quarter ending March 31 st, 2025. Questions are welcome; however, to ensure we have time to review and properly address them during the call, please send them in advance to [email protected]. An archived version will be available on the website following the conference call. Financial Summary: For the three-month period ended March 31 st: [ This image cannot be displayed. Please visit the source: ] 1 Other represents foreign exchange, interest accretion on lease liabilities and / or interest income To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Financial Highlights For the three-month period ended March 31, 2025: Operational Highlights Private Placements The Company has raised approximately $CAN 6.3 million over the last 2 years through non-brokered private placements in support of its research and development programs. It is currently investigating the use of a full-service investment bank in the United States to advise on potential financings and US listing opportunities. Information on any future financings will be released once available in accordance with applicable securities laws. Herpes Simplex Virus ('HSV') Treatment Program Theralase® continues preclinical development of its HSV treatment using non-light activated and light-activated small molecules. The Company is actively working on in-vitro, and in the near future, in-vivo HSV preclinical models to finalize a formulation for optimal dermal penetration to increase patient safety and efficacy. Good Laboratory Practice ('GLP') toxicology studies will commence once a formulation has been finalized. Additional details will be announced as strategic objectives are achieved. Phase II Bladder Cancer Study Update ('Study II') Interim Clinical Results For the primary endpoint of Study II (Complete Response ('CR') at any point in time) 62% of patients provided the Study Procedure (Study Drug activated by the Study Device) demonstrated a CR. Including patients, who demonstrated an Indeterminate Response ('IR') (negative cystoscopy and positive or suspicious urine cytology), the Total Response ('TR') increases to 70%. This represents that approximately 2 out of 3 BCG-Unresponsive NMIBC CIS patients treated with Theralase®'s unique Study Procedure are demonstrating complete destruction of their bladder cancer. For the secondary endpoint of Study II (duration of CR) 42% of treated patients who achieved a CR, maintained their CR response for at least 12 months (450 days from date of Study Procedure). For the tertiary endpoint of Study II (safety of Study Procedure) 100% (69/69) experienced no Serious Adverse Events ('SAEs') directly related to the Study Drug or Study Device. Outside of the defined endpoints of Study II, Theralase® has demonstrated a duration of CR at extended time points of 23% at 2 years, 21% at 3 years and 2% at 7 years. Note: Not all patients have been assessed at these extended time points. As more clinical data is collected, the duration of CR at 2, 3 and 7 years may increase. Theralase® is on track to complete enrollment in Study II by the summer of 2025. This will allow the Company to report on 75 patients who have completed Study II in December 2025 and to report on all 90 patients by September 2026. Upon follow-up of all patients, the Company plans to submit a New Drug Application ('NDA') to Health Canada and the FDA in 4Q2026, with a decision expected by the respective regulatory authorities on a marketing approval in 2027. As Theralase® completes enrollment in Study II, it is actively searching for commercialization partners for international marketing and sales of Ruvidar®. To this end, Theralase® is in various stages of initial and advanced discussions with international pharmaceutical companies for various geographical territories concerning: In recent discussions with the FDA, the Company has decided that since Study II is 91% complete, the best course of action is not to pursue Break Through Designation, but to complete Study II and submit the clinical data to the FDA in a formal NDA. At the end of the meeting, the FDA made a comment that they were impressed that the interim clinical data obtained to date was able to be achieved with only one clinical treatment, in the majority of cases. Ruvidar® has demonstrated 10 years of shelf life, strongly supporting the stability of the molecule and the ability of clinics to store the small molecule for extended periods of time. Additional Oncology Targets Theralase® has combined Ruvidar® with transferrin (human glycoprotein) to form Rutherrin®. Rutherrin® is a strong candidate for the systemic treatment of recurrent, deep seated and/or progressive cancers. Due to the limitations of using laser light to activate Rutherrin® in deep oncological targets, Theralase® plans to activate Rutherrin® with radiation therapy to increase the 'tumour's damage zone' and the effectiveness of Theralase®'s small molecule beyond the reach of light in the body. Rutherrin®, if clinically proven, will be able to 'hunt' and 'localize' into cancer cells and when activated by radiation 'destroy' them; wherever, they may reside in the body. The Company expects to complete Good Laboratory Practice toxicology analysis in 4Q2025 to allow commencement of a Phase 0/I/II adaptive clinical study in 1Q2026 for the following indications: 1) Glio Blastoma Multiforme ('GBM') Brain Cancer Treatment 2) Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer ('NSCLC') Treatment 3) Pancreatic Cancer 4) Colorectal Cancer 5) Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer ('MIBC') Treatment 6) Herpes Simplex Virus ('HSV-1") Topical Treatment for Cold Sore Lesions For additional information, please refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis ('MD&A') available at About Ruvidar®: Ruvidar®(TLD-1433) is a small molecule, able to be activated by light, radiation, sound and/or other drugs, intended for the safe and effective destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses. About Theralase® Technologies Inc.: Theralase® is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of light, radiation, sound and/or drug-activated small molecule compounds, their associated drug formulations and the light systems that activate them, with a primary objective of efficacy and a secondary objective of safety in the destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses. Additional information is available at and Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains Forward-Looking Statements ('FLS') within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such statements include; but, are not limited to statements regarding the Company's proposed development plans with respect to small molecules and their drug formulations. FLS may be identified by the use of the words 'may, 'should', 'will', 'anticipates', 'believes', 'plans', 'expects', 'estimate', 'potential for' and similar expressions; including, statements related to the current expectations of the Company's management regarding future research, development and commercialization of the Company's small molecules; their drug formulations; preclinical research; clinical studies and regulatory approvals. These statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions; including, the ability of the Company to fund and secure the regulatory approvals to successfully complete various clinical studies in a timely fashion and implement its development plans. Other risks include: the ability of the Company to successfully commercialize its small molecule and drug formulations; the risk that access to sufficient capital to fund the Company's operations may not be available on terms that are commercially favorable to the Company or at all; the risk that the Company's small molecule and drug formulations may not be effective against the diseases tested in its clinical studies; the risk that the Company fails to comply with the terms of license agreements with third parties and as a result loses the right to use key intellectual property in its business; the Company's ability to protect its intellectual property; the timing and success of submission, acceptance and approval of regulatory filings. Many of these factors that will determine actual results are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict. Readers should not unduly rely on these FLS, which are not a guarantee of future performance. There can be no assurance that FLS will prove to be accurate as such FLS involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results or future events to differ materially from the FLS are made as of the date hereof and are subject to change. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update such FLS. For investor information on the Company, please feel to reach outInvestor Inquiries - Theralase Technologies. For More Information: (843-5273) (5273) Kristina Hachey, CPA Chief Financial Officer X 224 [email protected] To view the source version of this press release, please visit
Associated Press
24-03-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
Ruvidar Effective in the Treatment of Herpes
Ruvidar(TM) demonstrates higher efficacy in the treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus, Type 1 versus the standard of care treatments Acyclovir and Abreva in a preclinical animal model. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - March 24, 2025) - Theralase® Technologies Inc. (TSXV: TLT) (OTCQB: TLTFF) ('Theralase®" or the 'Company'), a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of light, radiation, sound and/or drug-activated small molecules and their formulations, intended for the safe and effective destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses, is pleased to announce that Ruvidar TM has demonstrated a higher efficacy in the treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus, Type 1 ('HSV-1") versus standard of care treatments Acyclovir (1%) and Abreva in a preclinical animal model. Herpes Simplex Virus ('HSV'), known as herpes, is a very common infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers on the skin of an individual. It primarily spreads by skin-to-skin contact, while it is treatable, it is not curable. 1 There are two main types of HSV: 1 Type 1 ('HSV-1") generally spreads by oral contact and causes infections in or around the mouth, vermilion, upper or lower lip region (oral herpes or cold sores). It can also cause genital herpes. A majority of adults are infected with HSV-1. Type 2 ('HSV-2") spreads by sexual contact and causes herpes in the genital region of an individual. An estimated 3.8 billion people under the age of 50 (64%) globally have HSV-1, the main cause of oral herpes. An estimated 520 million people aged 15 to 49 (13%) globally have HSV-2, the main cause of genital herpes. 1 The global HSV treatment market size was estimated at $USD 2.8 billion in 2024 and is expected to balloon to $USD 4.7 billion by 2033. 2 The market growth can be attributed to the growing concerns over HSV infection, including, oral and genital herpes. Moreover, the infection is highly contagious, spreading via saliva, vaginal secretion or semen and is acquired unknowingly. These factors highlight the increasing need for treatment throughout the projected period. 3 North America accounted for the largest market share of 37.1% in 2024, which can be attributed to higher consumption of branded herpes drugs, escalating healthcare expenditure, increasing launch of generics and favorable reimbursement policies. 2 The HSV-1 lifecycle begins upon contact with mucosal surfaces and it is in this niche, where the virus actively replicates inducing local lesion formation. The virus then enters local sensory nerve endings and migrates back to neuronal cell bodies in the peripheral nervous system. It is in this location where the virus enters into a latent, non-replicative stage until later reactivation. 4 Despite longstanding attempts at therapy and prevention, HSV remains among the most prevalent human infectious viral pathogens; therefore, it's imperative to keep HSV from replicating by implementing advanced vaccines and more effective drugs to combat and defeat this pervasive disease. In the latest Theralase® research, Balb/C mice were infected with human HSV-1 virus on Day 0. TM (1%). Figure 2. Abreva treatment of HSV-1 infected cutaneous lesions To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: Acyclovir (1%) Treatment [ This image cannot be displayed. Please visit the source: ] Figure 3. Acyclovir (1%) treatment of HSV-1 infected cutaneous lesions Cannot view this image? Visit: Ruvidar TM (1%) Treatment [ This image cannot be displayed. Please visit the source: ] Figure 4. Ruvidar TM (1%) treatment of HSV-1 infected cutaneous lesions Cannot view this image? Visit: The results support the safety and efficacy of topically applied non-light activated Ruvidar® for accelerated healing of cutaneous HSV-1 lesions in a mouse model. Pavel Kaspler, Ph.D., research scientist, Theralase®, who conducted the preclinical study stated, " I am extremely impressed with the efficacy of the Ruvidar TM to successfully heal the HSV-1 lesions in an animal model versus common standard of care treatments, currently available, such as Abreva and Acyclovir. My next set of experiments will be to increase the number of daily applications of Abreva, Acyclovir and Ruvidar TM (from once daily to 5 times daily) and increase the dosage of Acyclovir and Ruvidar TM (1 to 5%) to see how this affects the healing time of HSV-1 lesions. It is my hope that my preclinical research leads to the development of a clinical treatment to aid the multitude of individuals suffering from cold sores.' Arkady Mandel, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer, Theralase® stated, " Based on the chemical properties of Ruvidar TM, I am not surprised that it has had such a dramatic effect on the inactivation of HSV-1 lesions in this animal model. It is well established in the literature that the HSV-1 virus' glycoproteins (glycans - gB and gC) are negatively charged, as is the Heparan Sulphate ('HS') receptors on a cell's surface (preferred binding site of the virus on a cell). This provides a novel mechanism (based on controlled electrostatic repulsion) that addresses how viruses balance between optimized viral attachment to target cells and efficient egress of progeny virus. 5,6 On the other hand, Ruvidar TM is positively charged. 7 This allows Ruvidar TM the unique ability to be able to bind to and block the glycoproteins on HSV-1, preventing binding to host cells, as well as on the HS cell surface receptors preventing the efficient egress of progeny virus. This leads to an inability of the virus to replicate, allowing accelerated healing of cold sore lesions. ' Roger DuMoulin-White, President and Chief Executive Officer, Theralase® stated, " As always, I am in awe of the ability of Ruvidar TM to effectively destroy cancer cells, as well as efficiently inactivate bacteria and viruses. Based on the success of this latest preclinical research, Theralase®, pending funding in 2025, will commence formulation of Ruvidar TM into topical form, complete GLP toxicology and commence a Phase I/II adaptive clinical study to demonstrate the safety and efficacy of Ruvidar TM in the accelerated healing of cold sore lesions in humans. ' 1 2 3 Herpes Simplex Virus Treatment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (HSV-1, HSV-2), By Drug (Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Famciclovir), By Vaccine (Simplirix, Others), By Route of Administration, By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030 Herpes Simplex Virus Treatment Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (HSV-1, HSV-2), By Drug (Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Famciclovir), By Vaccine (Simplirix, Others), By Route of Administration, By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2024 - 2030 4 Roizman B, Knipe DM, Whitley R. Herpes Simplex Viruses. 6th ed. In: Knipe DM, Howley PM, editors. Fields Virology. 6th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2013. pp. 1823-1897. 5 Transforms of Cell Surface Glycoproteins Charge Influences Tumor Cell Metastasis via Atypically Inhibiting Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition Including Matrix Metalloproteinases and Cell Junctions. Mingzhe Wang et al. Bioconjugate Chemistry. Vol. 34. Issue 8. July 2023 6 Olofsson S, Bally M, Trybala E, Bergström T. Structure and Role of O-Linked Glycans in Viral Envelope Proteins. Annu Rev Virol. 2023 Sep 29;10(1):283-304. doi: 10.1146/annurev-virology-111821-121007. Epub 2023 Jul 6. PMID: 37285578. 7 About Theralase® Technologies Inc.: Theralase® is a clinical stage pharmaceutical company dedicated to the research and development of light, radiation, sound and/or drug-activated small molecule compounds, their associated drug formulations and the light systems that activate them, with a primary objective of efficacy and a secondary objective of safety in the destruction of various cancers, bacteria and viruses. Additional information is available at and Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains Forward-Looking Statements ('FLS') within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Such statements include; but, are not limited to statements regarding the Company's proposed development plans with respect to small molecules and their drug formulations. FLS may be identified by the use of the words 'may, 'should', 'will', 'anticipates', 'believes', 'plans', 'expects', 'estimate', 'potential for' and similar expressions; including, statements related to the current expectations of the Company's management regarding future research, development and commercialization of the Company's small molecules; their drug formulations; preclinical research; clinical studies and regulatory approvals. These statements involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions; including, the ability of the Company to fund and secure the regulatory approvals to successfully complete various clinical studies in a timely fashion and implement its development plans. Other risks include: the ability of the Company to successfully commercialize its small molecule and drug formulations; the risk that access to sufficient capital to fund the Company's operations may not be available on terms that are commercially favorable to the Company or at all; the risk that the Company's small molecule and drug formulations may not be effective against the diseases tested in its clinical studies; the risk that the Company fails to comply with the terms of license agreements with third parties and as a result loses the right to use key intellectual property in its business; the Company's ability to protect its intellectual property; the timing and success of submission, acceptance and approval of regulatory filings. Many of these factors that will determine actual results are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict. Readers should not unduly rely on these FLS, which are not a guarantee of future performance. There can be no assurance that FLS will prove to be accurate as such FLS involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause actual results or future events to differ materially from the FLS. Although the FLS contained in the press release are based upon what management currently believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure prospective investors that actual results, performance or achievements will be consistent with these FLS. (5273)
