Novomer to Probe Functional Beta-Lactones to Enhance Virus Deactivation

Novomer, Inc., the leading developer of beta-propiolactones and derivatives, is targeting novel functionalized beta-propiolactones for possible use in vaccine applications against coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2 (the coronavirus causing the COVID-19 disease).

The research initiative is grounded in the longstanding protocol of using beta-propiolactone to inactivate viruses. New functional beta-lactone architectures may have improved performance relative to beta-propiolactone owing to differences in lipophilicity and reactivity with functional groups commonly found in viruses.

“Novel functionalized beta-propiolactones may unlock the key to selectively targeting the virus RNA for successful inactivation. By utilizing Novomer’s catalyst and process technology, these novel materials can be produced in high volumes and high quality required for this important application,” says Geoff Coates, Novomer Co-Founder. “Our belief is that combining our enhanced catalytic technology with vaccination strategies already relying on beta-propiolactones could enable a new class of highly effective and safe vaccines.”

Vaccines are just one example of enhanced utility enabled by functionalized lactones. The beta-lactone class of monomers has been overlooked as a useful class of materials that has important benefits across multiple industries.

About Novomer
Novomer, Inc. is a leading developer of chemical conversion technology to address market needs for transformable, functional, and high carbon utility materials. Novomer’s current focus is in the development of beta-propiolactones and derivatives, using its proprietary CoEth technology. Our patented technology focuses on catalyst, process conversion, and polymerization techniques to provide chemical intermediates, compostable polymers, and high-performance functionalized lactones. Novomer’s investment base includes strategic investors Saudi Aramco, SABIC and DSM and financial investors Flagship Ventures, OVP Ventures, and Physic Ventures. For more information, visit www.novomer.com.