Stem cell-based drug could help treat chronic asthma

A new stem cell-based drug developed in Melbourne is showing promise in treating chronic asthma sufferers.

Designed to be taken once a week, Cymerus is a liquid medication developed by Australian bio-tech Cynata.

Research had shown that Cymerus - which utilises a group of stem cells - calms the immune system, minimising the chances of having an attack and its severity.

It has also been proven to improve airway constriction by 75 percent.

“The (stem) cells are able to reduce that scar tissue and improve the function of the airways and lungs,” Associate Professor Chrishan Samuel from Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute said.

In an asthma attack, dust and pollen can trigger the airways to become tense and narrow, making it hard to breathe.

“Existing drugs don’t completely resolve the condition,” product developer Dr Kilian Kelly said.

Just last week, the official asthma treatment guidelines were updated following last year's deadly thunderstorm, reinforcing the need for sufferers to adhere to prevention treatment.

“I take two puffs a morning and two an evening so that's four a day,” asthma sufferer David Letcher said.

“If I stop taking it I'll be back to square one.”

When Cymerus eventually hits pharmacy shelves, it's likely asthma sufferers like Mr Letcher will take a weekly injected dose in addition to regularly inhaled steroids.

But those sensitive to steroids can benefit from the stem cell technology alone.

“There are certain patients who are resistant to certain asthma medication … so perhaps this might be a replacement to those patients,” Associate Professor Samuel said.

Researchers will begin a human trial next year, with hopes to get the drug on shelves by 2021.

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