LUNA INNOVATIONS INCORPORATED — Department of Defense SBIR Phase II: SB142-004

Description

Special Operations Forces that are deployed in austere areas are associated with an increased risk of envenomation. Current treatment uses species-specific or polyvalent antivenins that are generated from the sera of animals immunized with whole venom, necessitating the correct identification of the venomous species and continuous injection of large volume of antibodies at an ICU-capable medical facility with increased risk of life-threatening complications. There is a clear capability gap to protect deployed soldiers against venom exposure. Luna is developing affinity nanoparticles that can capture and neutralize a broad range of medically important venom toxins as universal antivenom. Previous efforts demonstrated the feasibility of the affinity nanoparticles capable of sequestering and neutralizing toxins. The Phase II project will continue the effort to optimize nanoparticles to achieve broad spectrum protection against snake venoms of military interest including viper and elapid snakes. Efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics and biodistribution will be evaluated along with preclinical nanoparticle formulations and analytical development to support an IND package.