Episode Details

Melbourne researchers have developed an experimental synthetic drug called LAT-9997 that could protect against severe influenza and deadly pneumonia complications. The small protein peptide is inhaled directly into the lungs like an asthma puffer, and in early mice trials, just two doses dramatically reduced lung damage and helped prevent bacterial pneumonia by slowing viral spread and strengthening the lung's protective lining. Human clinical trials are the next step, with the goal of eventually developing an at-home inhaler for early flu treatment.

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