Sponsor link https://padinitiative.com/wp-content/uploads/PAD-Henipavirus-Request-for...

The RFP will support projects that seek to elucidate the molecular determinants of henipavirus replication, pathogenesis and transmission for the purpose of developing therapeutic discovery programs targeting virus and/or host-specific targets important for virus replication. Projects can be of both novel and exploratory nature and of later-stage validation/developmental nature.

Specific areas of interest include:

• Biomarkers of henipavirus pathogenesis in humans to facilitate drug discovery programs and clinical evaluation of antiviral therapies

• Identification and validation of virus and/or host targets necessary for henipavirus replication that could serve as starting points for therapeutic discovery

• Inhibitors of virus and/or host targets that are broadly active across paramyxoviruses with a preference for henipaviruses

• Novel tools and assays for studying henipavirus replication and pathogenesis that do not require BSL-4 containment

• Target based approaches for henipavirus antiviral discovery and development

The aspiration of PAD is to catalyze the discovery and early development of antiviral medicines in preparation for future outbreaks of infectious diseases with pandemic potential. With equitable access as a core principle of the initiative, the founding partners are committed to ensuring that discoveries and innovations supported by PAD are accessible for people in low and middle-income countries. By focusing on small molecules for oral delivery, these efforts can help ensure the world is prepared to quickly develop and deploy effective, accessible antiviral drugs next time the world faces a pandemic threat.

Projects on vaccines, antibody therapy, and epidemiology will not be considered for funding.