Emergent BioSolutions announced the publication of a review article on the use of its investigational antiviral drug, brincidofovir, for the treatment of mpox. The article, published in •Expert Review of Anti-infective Therapy•, details the drug’s mechanism, preclinical and clinical data, including human case studies, and ongoing research in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This research also explores its potential use in combination with tecovirimat for severe mpox cases in immunocompromised patients.
This research is crucial given the World Health Organization’s declaration of mpox as a global Public Health Emergency of International Concern in August 2024 and the continuing outbreaks, particularly in Africa. Effective treatments are urgently needed, and exploring existing antivirals like brincidofovir is a critical step in combating this evolving threat. The study provides valuable information for healthcare professionals and researchers working to control and manage the disease.
Brincidofovir is currently under evaluation in a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial called MOSA (MpOx Study in Africa), a partnership between the Africa CDC and PANTHER (Pandemic Preparedness Platform for Health and Emerging Infectious Response). The trial, which began in January 2025, is investigating the efficacy and safety of the drug in mpox patients and has received funding from Horizon Europe and the Africa CDC.
The publication of this review and the ongoing MOSA trial signal a potentially significant step toward developing effective mpox treatments. Positive results from the MOSA trial could lead to regulatory approval and broader availability of brincidofovir, offering a much-needed addition to the limited treatment options currently available for mpox. This could significantly improve patient outcomes and contribute to global efforts to control the spread of the disease.
Jon Napitupulu is Director of Media Relations at The Clinical Trial Vanguard. Jon, a computer data scientist, focuses on the latest clinical trial industry news and trends.
