2MA1

**2MA1** is a protein-based antiviral drug candidate developed by Masker MedTech AB for inhalation delivery in nebulized and dry-powder formats, specifically designed to treat COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 and its variants. It is a modified soluble form of human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) that mimics the membrane-bound enzyme to act as a decoy, binding the viral spike protein and preventing SARS-CoV-2 entry into respiratory cells via the ACE2 receptor. Preclinical studies demonstrated significant protection against death, reduced body weight loss, improved clinical status, and systemic anti-inflammatory effects (e.g., lower C-reactive protein) in ACE2-expressing mouse models of SARS-CoV-2 infection, with in vitro data showing superior cell viability protection compared to remdesivir in infected monkey epithelial cells.[2]