Technology Generator

Pharmalytics Corporation and De La Salle Health Sciences Institute-Dasmariñas

Project leader: Dr. Rita Grace Y. Alvero

Over the years, the global incidence of dengue has grown rapidly. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that there are 100-400 million infections annually. In the Philippines, the Department of Health (DOH) reported that dengue cases exceeded the epidemic threshold in 2019.

Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that causes a flu-like illness that may develop to severe complications such as bleeding, organ impairment, and plasma leakage. There is no known cure for dengue infection at present and only management of symptoms could help in the recovery.

The Solution

The country has a rich plant biodiversity that may offer potential remedies for dengue. Based on existing literature, several local medicinal plants have shown activity against the dengue virus. Through a research collaboration funded under DOST-PCHRD’s Tuklas Lunas® Program, a group of researchers from the De La Salle Health Sciences Institute-Dasmariñas (DLSHSI) and Pharmalytics Corporation, under the leadership of Dr. Josefino R. Alvero and  Dr. Rita Grace Y. Alvero, harnessed the bioactive potential of selected herbal plants against dengue. They were able to develop a solid oral anti-dengue formulation composed of a fixed-dose combination (FDC) of three herbal medicines available locally.

This anti-dengue herbal formulation helps in weakening the severity of dengue. Results of Plaque Reduction Neutralization Tests (PRNT) showed that the formulation was able to significantly neutralize certain strains of dengue virus.

Currently, the product has completed Phase 1 clinical trials. Results showed that the maximum tolerated dose predicted by the animal model was applicable to human participants. It will need to undergo Phase 2 and 3 trials before being offered for commercialization. The research team is also planning to test the formulation against related viruses  such as Japanese Encephalitis, Chikugunya and Yellow Fever.

Product Development Stage

The product is currently at Technology Readiness Level 6. Upon completion of Phase 3 clinical trials, the researchers intend to tap the local pharmaceutical companies for mass production and commercialization.

Patent applications have been filed locally and internationally and the invention is now entering the National Phase Entry.

Contact person
Dr. Rita Grace Y. Alvero
Clinical Director
Pharmalytics Corporation
3F Zhang Place Building, Blk 9 Lot 13, Metrosouth,
Brgy. Manggahan, General Trias, Cavite, Philippines
Telephone line: (+6328) 404-3461,(+6346) 416-6271
Email address: biorya1@yahoo.com
Website: https://pharmalyticscorp.com/