PrasiNOSE: Safe and effective novel therapeutic for the treatment of respiratory disorders.

Marine-derived molecules encompass a vast range of biochemical diversity and bioactive properties, making them important targets for a range of applications, including food, personal care and healthcare uses. In recent years seaweeds and microalgae have been key targets for the sustainable production of new products. Marine microalgae are microscopic plants which play a key role as a source of nutrients for ocean life and in capturing CO2, but also contain a wide array of novel bioactive compounds, which are largely underutilized. MicroA A.S, is a biotechnology company, producing ingredients from microalgal for applications in several markets. The overall objective of project IPN 321594 was to further develop MicroA’s microalgal derived product called ‘Prasinoguard’, to support is potential use for healthcare applications. Prasinoguard is a carbohydrate that has been shown to have biological properties and, in particular, may be suitable as a treatment for respiratory conditions. Chronic respiratory conditions and viral infections are of global importance, with cases on the rise due to air pollution, smoking and emergence of new diseases such as covid-19. These diseases represent a major economic and social burden and there is a clear need for safe and effective new drugs. Through project 321594 MicroA has been able to optimize the use of a patented semi-continuous PhotoBioReactor (cPBR) for the culture of microalgae, alongside improved downstream processing steps, resulting in a reproducible and scalable production of the carbohydrate natural product. This was confirmed by biochemical analysis of multiple batches. In addition, together with SINTEF, MicroA developed a scalable processes for the modification and further purification of this carbohydrate, to generate a product which could meet future regulatory requirements. The product obtained was subject to biochemical and biological characterisation, including carrying out tests of its safety profile, anti-inflammatory and anti-viral activity in relevant cells and models. The results demonstrated potent anti-viral effects against several important respiratory virus, with minimal toxicity. A key result was a significant reduction in infection by respiratory syncytial virus in both cell and animal model. Anti-inflammatory effect was also demonstrated in an animal model showing a dose range effect. This combinational activity, together with lower cost pharma grade manufacturing could open a new approach to tackle pressing healthcare needs within respiratory conditions including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Respiratory Syncytial Viruses RSV), and others. The project results will further promote utilisation of natural healthcare substances manufactured through environmentally sustainable processes.

The project results have helped MicroA to establish priority areas for further development, and build new expertise both within the company and by establishing strategic partnerships for product development. The work packages covering natural polysaccharide processing and purification process have been beneficial for MicroA and SINTEF as the results have underpinned the selection of optimal approaches, as well as further understanding of the significant challenges in this field, which can be applied to new processes and products. The demonstration of anti-viral and anti-inflammatory activity supports the further development of this product as a therapeutic to target respiratory conditions, therefore having the potential to address the major health and socio-economic burdens of these widespread and severe diseases. This combinational activity, together with lower cost pharma grade manufacturing could open a new approach to tackle pressing healthcare needs within respiratory conditions including Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Respiratory Syncytial Viruses RSV), and others. The project results will further promote utilisation of natural healthcare products manufactured through environmentally sustainable processes.

The PrasiNOSE project will develop MicroA's existing novel sulfated microalgal-derived polysaccharide (Prasinoguard) (PG) from an interesting lead compound with anti-inflammatory properties, to a drug candidate. In the first instance, PG will be employed as an over-the-counter treatment for the respiratory conditions. The use of natural polysaccharides as treatments for respiratory conditions is built on an increasing understanding of their role in cellular processes and represents a new opportunity in this field. During the project MicroA's patented PG technology will be further studied and optimised, by carrying out specific biochemical modifications, biochemical characterisation and biological efficacy testing in a range of assays targeted towards respiratory disease. This work will be carried out by MicroA and SINTEF, using both SINTEF’s existing bioassay platform, and by engaging with selected subcontractors. By taking this approach the project will address the central research and commercial challenges related to product development which are (i) generating an optimised, formulation-ready therapeutic based on PG, (ii) establishing safety for subsequent pre-clinical trials, (iii) demonstrating anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-viral efficacy in state-of-the-art, clinically relevant in vitro and ex-vivo model systems , (iv) consolidating links with medical partners, contractors and regulatory bodies. The new knowledge generated concerning the biological functions of PG will also support its potential use for other inflammatory conditions. This project will form a foundation for further product formulation, pre-clinical and clinical development and commercialisation for the use of PG as an innovative treatment for a range of respiratory conditions.