AyuVis, incubated at HSC, receives FDA Fast Track for drug preventing preterm infant lung disease
AyuVis Research Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company incubated at The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth’s HSC Next Innovation Labs, recently announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted Fast Track designation to its investigational drug, AVR-48.
This designation is for AVR-48’s potential use in the prevention of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, a leading cause of mortality and long-term complications in preterm infants.
“We are immensely proud of AyuVis’ achievement and the potential impact on the lives of preterm infants,” said Dr. Katrina Gordon, associate director of entrepreneurship at HSC Next. “This success story exemplifies the power of our labs to support and nurture health care startups that are driving forward life-changing advancements.”
AyuVis’ journey began at the HSC Next Innovation Labs, a state-of-the-art facility designed to foster the growth of health care startups. With access to world-class research infrastructure, expert mentorship and essential resources, the labs enable companies like AyuVis to accelerate their path from concept to impactful innovation.
AVR-48, developed by AyuVis, is a new treatment that could greatly improve care for premature babies. These babies are at risk for BPD which is caused by long-term inflammation and damage from oxygen treatments. AVR-48 aims to significantly improve outcomes by preventing BPD and reducing the risk of related conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
The FDA’s Fast Track designation provides an expedited review process for AVR-48, which could result in the drug reaching patients sooner. This accelerated timeline provides hope to families facing the challenges of preterm birth, offering the potential for improved health outcomes in infants at risk for BPD.
“This recognition is a significant milestone in our journey to develop groundbreaking immunotherapies aimed at preventing BPD,” said Dr. Suchi Acharya, founder and CEO of AyuVis and assistant professor, pharmacology & neuroscience at the College of Biomedical and Translational Sciences. “It underscores our dedication to addressing unmet medical needs and brings us closer to offering this critical solution to pediatric patients.”
AyuVis’ progress reflects the value of a collaborative and supportive environment for health care innovators. HSC Innovation Labs remains committed to offering the resources and expertise required for companies like AyuVis to thrive and make a global impact.
“HSC has been instrumental in our growth and success,” Acharya said. “The university’s cutting-edge research facilities, talented interns and collaborative programs have provided us with the foundation to bring our ideas to life. Our partnership has created an ecosystem where innovation can truly thrive.”
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