Overview of innovation
The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has caused a number of deaths globally. In response to the pandemic we have used all our resources to assist by firstly utilizing computer based drug target interactions (DTI) predictions to identify FDA approved Drugs which binds to the active pocket of COVID-19 main protease (C19MP), 6LU7 to control or cure COVID-19. Secondly, SA Rebuilders has developed a novel antiviral formulation with improved bioavailability to treat HIV. Recent computer based DTI predictions identified non- nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NNRTI) and protease inhibitors used as antiretrovirals (ARV) as the most potent chemical compounds with the potential to treat COVID-19. Additionally, ARVs are a standard treatment and doctors in Thailand were able to cure a patient infected with COVID-19 using a combination of ARVs and flu antivirals, although clinical trials are underway interventions are expected to take a few months to years to develop. We have been developing non-nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) formulations for the past 5 years and have conducted, a virtual screening study of our ARV and found that it binds to the active pocket of COVID-19 main protease (C19MP), 6LU7, and could have the potential to control or cure COVID-19. Financial or collaborative assistance is required for further in vitro testing of our ARV formulation in order to validate this finding.

Secondly, In response to the need for PPEs Dr Maryam Amra Jordaan, a Leader in Innovation (LIF) alumnus and 2020 pitch winner was selected to be part of Project CARE (COVID-19 African Rapid Entrepreneurs) which is an initiative funded by the Royal Academy of Engineering to address the impact of COVID-19 which supports engineering entrepreneurs to make and supply personal protective equipment i.e. face shields to be used by healthcare facilities in South Africa. We propose an ingenious approach combining chemistry and engineering to design an innovative face mask incorporating composites which are natural polymer based composites i.e. hemp, and is biodegradable, biocompatible and with design flexibility and sustainability.
Name of Developer
Dr Maryam Amra Jordaan
Primary Organisation
SA Rebuilders
Was this innovation co-created?
No
Innovation Area/Category
Treatment
Other
Technology Readiness Level
TRL 3 – Proof of concept created
Intellectual Property
Yes
Type of Intellectual Property protection
Patent
Opportunity Type
Funding