The phase II trial will be a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of antroquinonol as a potential treatment for mild-to-moderate pneumonia in COVID-19 patients. Previously, antroquinonol, a product extracted from a fungus, has been found to reduce nucleic acid replication and viral protein synthesis in both cell and animal models. The drug prevents organ and tissue damage by reducing excess inflammation. Antroquinonol is also being studied as a monotherapy for non-small cell lung cancer and as a combination therapy for metastatic pancreatic cancer.

GoldenBiotech has applied for a CoronaWatch meeting with the U.S. Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Administration with the hope of partnering for the future development of antroquinonol for treatment of COVID-19. The company will apply for emergency use authorization upon successful completion of the clinical trial.