READDI’s Role

A global public-private nonprofit biotechnology company, READDI makes antiviral drugs shelf-ready for immediate deployment when the next viral outbreak emerges.

How? By identifying the families of viruses most likely to spark the next pandemic and targeting them with broad-spectrum small molecule drugs.

Imagine a scenario where COVID-19 had hit, but the world was ready.”

Rapid response

Small molecule antiviral drugs can be developed and produced more efficiently than biologics and vaccines, making them an essential frontline tool in responding to a new outbreak. Vaccines are vital for ending pandemics, but developing a new vaccine can take months, if not years. Small molecule drugs ready at the point of an outbreak make it possible to contain the spread of a novel virus before it becomes pandemic.

Flexibility

A single broad-spectrum small molecule antiviral drug can be used to treat a wide range of viruses within a given virus family, including those that may not have been identified yet. This makes broad-spectrum antivirals flexible enough to respond to emerging viral threats. It is possible to prepare for unknown threats.

Treatment options

An effective pandemic response may require multiple treatment modalities. Small molecule antiviral drugs can treat people infected with a virus and prevent disease in people who may have been exposed but are not yet ill, known as post-exposure prophylaxis or PEP. Effective therapeutics can be particularly important for people who may not be able to receive a vaccine due to underlying health conditions.

Resistance

As viruses evolve, they may become resistant to existing treatments. Developing a range of small molecule antiviral drugs with different mechanisms of action can reduce the risk of resistance developing and ensure that there are effective treatments available for future outbreaks.

Learn more about READDI’s broad-spectrum small molecule solutions.