RNase L is a protein that is activated by a chemical called 2’-5’ oligo A.  This chemical is synthesized by cells after stimulated with a protein hormone called Interferon following a viral infection and comprises a major component of the innate antiviral response.  Once activated by 2’-5’ oligo A, the RNase L protein, in turn destroys viral RNA genomes, which results in a blockade of viral replication.  In addition, the byproducts of the degradation of viral RNA stimulate the production of local Interferon, thus amplifying the antiviral pathways of the innate immune system.

Alios and The Cleveland Clinic have entered into an exclusive collaboration to discover and develop certain RNase L activation technology developed by Cleveland Clinic scientist, Robert Silverman, Ph.D., a leading expert on the RNase L system.  Under the collaboration, Alios has exclusively licensed worldwide rights to a broad array of issued target patents encompassing RNase L as well as patent applications for small molecule activators of the enzyme.  Alios is also funding specific research projects in Dr. Silverman’s laboratory.  Several of the Alios compounds have demonstrated antiviral activity in cell-based models of viral infection for both RNA and DNA viruses with no cytoxicity over a range of doses with antiviral effects.  The Alios lead small molecule activators of RNase L will target Hepatitis C virus as the first indication.