On Aug. 24, 2020,Trevena announced that Imperial College London (ICL) had initiated a proof-of-concept study for TRV027 in COVID-19 patients. Through an ongoing collaboration with ICL, the Company is evaluating the potential of TRV027 to treat acute lung damage / abnormal blood clotting associated with COVID-19. ICL is sponsoring and funding the study, with additional support through the British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence Award.

In a COVID-19 infection, the SARS-coronavirus-2 binds to and removes the ACE2 protein in the lungs and other organs, resulting in a hormonal imbalance at the AT₁ receptor. This results in acute lung damage, which often progresses to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), as well as abnormal blood clotting throughout the body. TRV027 specifically binds to and rebalances AT₁ receptor activation, blocking the damaging pathway that leads to ARDS and abnormal blood clotting conditions such as stroke. Additionally, the unique mechanism of action of TRV027 selectively targets the reparative pathway that improves lung function and promotes anti-inflammatory effects.

This is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study that will enroll approximately 60 hospitalized, non-ventilated patients aged 18 or older with a confirmed COVID-19 infection. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate whether TRV027 reduces abnormal clotting associated with COVID-19. The study will also assess the effect of TRV027 on lung function and other clinical outcomes. The Company currently expects to report topline data in Q1 2021.