Ranpirnase (OKG-0301), a Novel Ribonuclease, Demonstrates Antiviral Activity against Adenovirus in the Ad5/NZW Rabbit...

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Virology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Adenovirus ocular infections are prevalent globally, lacking approved antiviral treatments.
• Ranpirnase is a novel ribonuclease that inhibits protein synthesis by degrading tRNA.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the anti-adenoviral efficacy of topical ranpirnase (OKG-0301) formulations.
• To assess ranpirnase's effect on adenoviral replication in an established rabbit ocular model.

Main Methods:

• New Zealand White rabbits were inoculated with human adenovirus type 5 (HAdV5).
• Topical treatments included 0.03% OKG-0301, 0.003% OKG-0301, saline, or 0.5% cidofovir.
• Viral titers were quantified over two weeks via ocular cultures.

Main Results:

• Both 0.03% and 0.003% OKG-0301 significantly decreased HAdV5 viral titers compared to saline.
• Ranpirnase formulations and cidofovir shortened the duration of HAdV5 infection.
• Antiviral activity of OKG-0301 was comparable to the positive control, 0.5% cidofovir.

Conclusions:

• Topical ranpirnase (OKG-0301) exhibits potent antiviral activity against adenoviral ocular infections in rabbits.
• Ranpirnase demonstrates potential as a topical therapeutic agent for adenoviral eye infections.
• Further clinical investigation of ranpirnase for adenoviral eye infections is warranted.