Posted: 23 June 2025
A groundbreaking study was conducted by scientists at the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute (WEHI), revealing a novel drug compound that prevented long COVID symptoms in mice. This landmark discovery was anticipated to pave the way for future clinical trials and the first treatment for the debilitating condition.
The world-first research demonstrated that mice treated with the antiviral compound, developed by a multidisciplinary team at WEHI, were safeguarded from prolonged brain and lung dysfunction, which are key symptoms of long COVID. The unprecedented results were expected to lead to clinical trials and an oral treatment for long COVID in the future.
Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of COVID-19 (PASC), was characterized by symptoms persisting for weeks or months after contracting COVID-19. Despite millions worldwide reporting these symptoms, the cause of long COVID remained largely unknown, and no approved treatment existed.
Dr. Marcel Doerflinger, WEHI Laboratory Head and corresponding author, stated that the landmark results could be a turning point in the search for treatments to support individuals at risk of developing this condition. He emphasized that 5% of COVID-19 patients developed long COVID, transforming the disease into a silent pandemic. “This discovery could be a game-changer in our efforts to combat long COVID and provide relief to millions suffering from its effects,” Dr. Doerflinger remarked.
The study achieved something no currently approved therapy had done to date – preventing the most debilitating symptoms of long COVID in mice. While further research was needed to develop a drug for human use, the milestone results in unique mouse models suggested a real possibility for future treatment.
The novel compound was found to be highly efficacious in suppressing the SARS-CoV-2 virus in mouse models, according to data generated from advanced laboratory equipment. The research was supported by the Medical Research Future Fund, the Wellcome Trust, and generous philanthropic donations for COVID research and translation.
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