Exogenus Therapeutics is currently developing an innovative treatment for acute lung inflammation, based on naturally-occurring vesicles that facilitate cellular communication. After securing funding from Portugal 2020 and the European Union for its ExoLUNG project, Exogenus is now studying the therapeutic potential of Exo‑101, its main therapeutic agent, for inflammatory conditions of the respiratory system.
Exo-101 is derived from umbilical cord blood mononuclear cells, already in use for transplantation into patients with hematological diseases. Known for their capacity to travel long distances within the body and support cellular communication, these nano‑sized vesicles are also thought to be safer than cellular therapies, while maintaining similar efficacy.
In previous studies, Exo-101 was shown to decrease inflammation and accelerate the regeneration of chronic skin wounds. At Exogenus, we believe that Exo-101 might have the same effect in the respiratory system, halting inflammation and promoting a pro-regenerative micro-environment. The results of this study will have a direct implication in therapy development for acute lung inflammation, including in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, but also those suffering from other inflammatory conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).