RLF-100 is being probed to treat Covid-19 patients as initial studies have shown that the drug is able to halt SARS-CoV-2 virus replication in lungs.
RLF-100 or Aviptadil is a formulation of synthetic human Vasoactive Intestinal Polypeptide (VIP).
VIP is released throughout the body, but remains mostly concentrated in lungs.
It is produced by immune cells and nerve endings and acts as a neurotransmitter.
It helps improve muscle activity and blood flow in gastrointestinal tract.
VIP has anti-inflammatory and anti-cytokine activity properties.
It protects alveolar type II cells responsible for oxygen exchange in lungs.
Since coronavirus attacks lungs and the alveolar cells, drug may be helpful in preventing SARS-CoV-2 onslaught in alveolar cell and limit damage in lung.
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