ASTREMIHA Therapeutics

ASTREMIHA Therapeutics is developing a new class of broad-spectrum antivirals, based on fifteen years of academic research. These molecules, QV-based compounds, feature a triple complementary mode of action:

1. Direct inhibition of viral replication, limiting the progression and invasion of infection in the acute phase and thus reducing the formation of viral reservoirs responsible for long-term persistence and reactivation.
2. Modulation of the immune response, helping to regulate the immune response in a beneficial way and limit viro-induced pathophysiological mechanisms, such as apoptosis, chronic inflammatory mechanisms, and persistent immune activation.
3. Elimination of deep viral reservoirs, particularly in the brain and intestines, which are central to chronic infections.

Proof of concept has been established in preclinical models of AIDS, showing a reduction in viral replication in peripheral tissues, accompanied by an improvement in immune response with reduced inflammation. In the SARS-CoV-2 model, these compounds also demonstrated protective antiviral and immunomodulatory activity, suggesting a universal mechanism of action and positioning this family as a new class of antivirals.

These results pave the way for the development of a broad-spectrum therapeutic arsenal to prepare for future pandemics. These may be exacerbated by several identified factors: global warming, intercontinental migration, melting glaciers, and the proliferation of mosquito vectors. In this context, the gradual development of an antiviral platform capable of responding to emerging and re-emerging viruses is a logical continuation of the proof of concept obtained.

The project selected by IDCluster focuses on the development and positioning of QVs compounds in preparation for future pandemics, aiming to have them recognised as a medical countermeasure. This focus is in line with IDCluster’s strategic priorities.

ASTREMIHA is one of the promising projects selected for pre-acceleration. As such, the startup will benefit from the support of IDCluster, as well as the assistance and network mobilized to strengthen the scientific, strategic, and operational structure of the project. This pre-acceleration forms the basis of the work to be undertaken in January, with a view to possible acceleration and an application for France 2030 public funding.