Camostat Potential Treatment for COVID-19: German Study
March 11, 2020
The serine protease inhibitor camostat mesylate could have the potential to be used as a treatment for COVID-19, according to results from an in vitro study conducted by a German research group using a human cell line to identify the mechanism of infection by novel coronavirus.
The study was carried out by a team led by researchers at the German Primate Center - Leibniz Institute for Primate Research. Their findings were recently published in the journal Cell.
Camostat mesilate, which inhibits the serine protease TMPRSS2, is marketed in Japan by Ono Pharmaceutical under the brand name Foipan Tablets, with generic versions also available. An Ono spokesperson said it has received inquiries from investors and the media since the results of the study were announced, but not from public agencies.