Lay summary
We urgently need broad-range antivirals that can be rapidly modified and deployed to tackle viral threats. We aim to create and test novel decoy Heparan Sulfate (HS) mimetics for prevention and treatments of viral infections. These water-soluble, bio-inspired antivirals are complementary to vaccines and deliverable via nasal spray. HS is used by viruses to attach to the cells. Fully synthetic HS mimetics can act as decoy molecules to capture and neutralize viruses. We have, for the first time, generated HS mimetic that outperformed the test standard, heparin. We developed novel methods to prepare mimetics quickly and efficiently using affordable ingredients. Further rational chemical modifications will improve the compounds potency. The antiviral properties of new compounds will be jointly investigated by internationally recognized experts in New Zealand with whom we have an established record of collaboration. This spans the full development path combining chemistry, virology, biology and immunology.