AR-501 (Panaecin™) is an inhaled formulation of gallium. Gallium is a molecule, nearly identical to iron, that disrupts iron-dependent biological processes and has been shown to kill antibiotic-resistant strains of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in laboratory research.

Gallium can also be administered intravenously. Intravenous (IV) gallium has already been approved by the FDA for use in people and is now being studied for its safety and effectiveness in controlling infections in people with CF.

Status

A phase 1 study of inhaled gallium in healthy volunteers showed that the drug was well-tolerated. A phase 2 study of inhaled gallium in people with CF is currently underway.

Sponsor

This program is sponsored by Aridis Pharmaceuticals and partially funded by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.