Biotron kicks off trial of novel HIV treatment

Sydney-based Biotron (ASX:BIT) has initiated a proof-of-concept phase Ib/IIa trial of its lead HIV drug candidate, BIT225.

BIT225 is a small molecule inhibitor that is being investigated for treatment of HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV).

In combating HIV, BIT225 works in concert with existing antiretroviral therapies by inhibiting viral replication in monocyte-macrophage cells.

The trial will see the investigational drug administered to 18 HIV-positive, treatment-naive patients, who will be treated over 10 days. A further eight patients will be given a placebo and both groups will then have a 10 day drug-free follow up.

Biotron Managing Director Dr Michelle Miller said that while current treatments have resulted in reduction of HIV levels in the body, they have not been effective in eliminating virus from underlying reservoirs.

“By specifically targeting HIV in reservoir cells, Biotron's BIT225 offers the potential to stop the on-going cycle of infection in the body,” she said.

The trial is expected to be completed and results announced in the first quarter of 2012.