Research Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Papain-Like Protease Launches

Pfizer Inc. and Clear Creek Bio, Inc. today announced a research collaboration and exclusive license agreement to advance the discovery and development of potential inhibitors of the SARS-CoV-2 papain-like protease (PLpro) for the oral treatment of COVID-19.

PLpro is an essential enzyme, along with the main protease (Mpro), which plays an important role in viral replication.

Charlotte Allerton, Chief Scientific Officer, Anti-Infectives, and Head of Medicine Design, of Pfizer, stated in a press release on December 6, 2022, “It is critical that we try to stay ahead of the virus, continuing to advance clinical development opportunities for our current oral therapy as well as innovating through our internal programs and strategic partnerships to bring forward additional monotherapy and/or combination treatment candidates that we believe may play a role in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.”

Under the terms of the agreement, the two companies will work together to identify a PLpro candidate to progress into the clinic. At that time, Pfizer will be solely responsible for further development and commercialization activities.

Clear Creek Bio will receive an undisclosed upfront payment and is eligible for additional potential payments.

Additional COVID-19 antiviral news is posted at PrecisionVaccinations.com/Antivirals.