Early Research
The genesis of Daval was when the founder, David Shotton, witnessed a research study in Mexico, where terminally ill patients, infected with HIV, were administered with early formulations of the existing AIMSPRO product. In David’s opinion, the observations were remarkable, with all the subjects showing a reduction in their antibody test scores and improvements in their symptoms, in their cell counts, viral load and quality of life scores. There was evidence to suggest that this therapy could provide a significant medical breakthrough.
The medication, now in Daval’s ownership, underwent intensive university based and in-house study. Daval originally maintained a product research facility at St. Bartholomew’s Hospital (Barts) and summarised below are the conclusions from these early research studies:
- AIMSPRO comprises caprine immunoglobulins, components of the HPA axis, arginine vasopressin, b-endorphin as well as anti-inflammatory cytokines and antibodies
- AIMSPRO converts a pro-inflammatory immune profile (TH1) to an anti-inflammatory profile (TH2)
- AIMSPRO possesses not only immune modulatory properties but also proteins known to stimulate and regulate the neuroendocrine system
- AIMSPRO has been shown to inhibit the Mixed Lymphocyte Response in vitro
- AIMSPRO has been shown to have distinct anti-HLA antibodies capable of inhibiting pro-inflammatory pathways in some disease states
- AIMSPRO has been shown to protect against LPS-mediated mortality
- AIMSPRO induces IL-10 synthesis in human cells
Daval’s scientists also hypothesise that AIMSPRO may improve the security of axonal conduction by a modification of voltage gated ion channels. Uncontrolled studies suggested a lowering of sodium channel triggering voltages - the opposite effect to that of local anaesthetic medications.
Following the encouraging results from the early research Daval embarked on a clinical development programme, initially focused on Multiple Sclerosis.