Eleva, a manufacturer of superior biologics, is exploring the potential of one of its drug candidates for first-in-line therapy of Covid-19. The compound, factor H, is part of the complement system, which is believed to affect the severity of the course of Covid-19. Eleva has developed factor H previously for a different indication and taken it through pre-clinical stages.

The complement system is a vital pathway acting within the immune system. It recognizes and destroys foreign invaders and protects the body’s own cells with a special component, factor H. Insufficient amounts of factor H lead to excessive inflammation and risk of tissue damage.

Emerging evidence suggests that the lung tissue decay observed in severe cases of Covid-19 could be caused by this unregulated inflammation. Current means to inhibit this process rely on artificial antibodies that block the pathway altogether, stopping the inactivation of pathogens and causing a significant risk of infection. Conversely, supplemented factor H allows for regulated defence while preserving the integrity of the host cells.

Eleva has previously developed recombinant factor H for a different indication, glomerulopathy in kidneys, and taken it through pre-clinical stages. Studies have indicated a significant reduction in tissue damage when factor H was supplemented; factor H proved able to reduce inflammation. Eleva is now looking to accelerate the Covid-19-specific evaluation with a suitable pharmaceutical partner.