“By targeting a single protein with our drug, you’re able to attack the two main major problems that occur in Covid-19,” Dr. Kauffman tells SurvivorNet. “One is the production of [a] new virus…We not only have the anti-viral activity but the anti-inflammatory activity.”

How Selinexor Works In Multiple Myeloma

The drug targets Exportin-1 protein, which is needed in order for a virus to spread within the body and drives inflammatory responses.

"Looking at next-generation proteasome inhibitors, and next-generation targeted therapies, one that's of particular interest is called selinexor," according to Dr. Paul Richardson, Director of Clinical Research at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute's Multiple Myeloma Center in a previous interview. "It's a completely new class of drugs which stops the ability of a cancer cell to move out tumor suppressor proteins."

Dr. Richardson explained that the mechanism by which selinexor functions is a bit like parents putting an end to a party that's growing out of control. "It's almost as if you're having a wild and crazy party at home, and you want your parents to leave so you can go even wilder and more crazy," he said. "Well, this drug stops that, and your parents stay at home. And as a result of that, the party settles down."

How Selinexor Could Works For COVID-19

By blocking Exportin-1, Karyopharm’s Dr. Kauffman says it could potentially be much more difficult for the virus to spread across the body and infect other cells. Additionally, Selinexor helps block inflammatory responses to the virus which will help people’s lungs function better and possibly prevent patients from going on ventilators.

“This dual mechanism of action to a single host protein makes it a really unique approach,” Dr. Kauffman says. “I think we have a shot. I’m hopeful.”

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