EBT-104

EBT-104 is a CRISPR-based gene therapy developed by Excision BioTherapeutics that targets herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2) infections, specifically designed to treat HSV-1 keratitis. It uses a dual-guide RNA CRISPR/Cas9 system to inactivate latent HSV by excising critical viral genes ICP0 and ICP27, which are essential for viral replication and latency maintenance. This gene editing approach aims to eliminate latent viral reservoirs in the peripheral nervous system ganglia, potentially providing a curative treatment rather than just symptom management. Preclinical studies demonstrated over 99% reduction of HSV DNA in cell cultures and elimination of viral shedding in most treated rabbit eyes with herpes keratitis. The technology is licensed from the Doudna Lab at University of California Berkeley and Khalili Lab at Temple University.

Other names

EBT 104EBT104EBT-104