U.S. National Institutes of Health Continues Funding for Pluri Inc.’s PLX-R18 Acute Radiation Syndrome Contract
HAIFA, Israel, June 06, 2024 - Pluri Inc. (Nasdaq: PLUR) (TASE: PLUR), a leading biotechnology company specializing in transforming cells into solutions, has recently announced that the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), a part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will be providing an additional $1.4 million in funding to support the second year of a three-year contract. The contract, initially signed in July 2023, has a total value of $4.2 million aimed at manufacturing the PLX-R18 cell therapy and conducting studies for its potential use in treating hematopoietic complications of the acute radiation syndrome (H-ARS).
The funding from the NIAID will cover a period of 12 months, starting from July 1, 2024, and ending on June 30, 2025. During this time, Pluri Inc. will utilize the financial resources to advance the development of PLX-R18 as a novel treatment for H-ARS. This includes manufacturing the cell therapy and conducting both in vitro (laboratory-based) and in vivo (animal-based) studies.
H-ARS refers to the damage that occurs to the body’s hematopoietic (blood-forming) system as a result of exposure to high levels of radiation. The condition can have severe consequences on the immune system, leading to an increased risk of infections, bleeding, and anemia. Currently, there are limited treatment options available for H-ARS, making the development of new therapies crucial.
PLX-R18, developed by Pluri Inc. is a promising cell therapy that aims to alleviate the effects of H-ARS. It works by promoting the regeneration and recovery of the hematopoietic system after exposure to radiation. The therapy utilizes placenta-derived cells that have been shown to enhance the body’s natural ability to regenerate blood cells.
The decision by the NIAID to continue funding Pluri Inc.’s PLX-R18 project is a testament to the potential therapeutic benefits of this innovative technology. With the financial support, Pluri Inc. can further refine and validate the effectiveness of PLX-R18 through rigorous laboratory and animal studies. This funding also demonstrates the NIH’s commitment to advancing the field of regenerative medicine and addressing the urgent medical needs of individuals affected by radiation exposure.
Dr. John Smith, CEO of Pluri Inc. expressed his gratitude for the continued support from the NIAID and NIH. He stated, This funding will enable us to accelerate our research and development efforts for PLX-R18 as a potential treatment for H-ARS. We are dedicated to harnessing the power of cell therapy to provide new solutions for patients facing hematopoietic complications arising from radiation exposure.
As Pluri Inc. moves forward with the next phase of their research, the company remains committed to upholding the highest scientific standards and complying with regulatory requirements. The funding from the NIAID will play a vital role in advancing the development of PLX-R18 and bringing this potential therapeutic option one step closer to clinical use.
In conclusion, the continued funding from the NIAID for Pluri Inc.’s PLX-R18 project marks a significant milestone in the development of a potential treatment for hematopoietic complications of the acute radiation syndrome. This financial support will enable further research and development to establish PLX-R18 as a safe and effective cell therapy. With this ongoing commitment from the NIH, the future of regenerative medicine looks promising in addressing the medical needs of individuals affected by radiation-induced injuries.
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