SINTX Technologies Announces New Antiviral Test Results

SINTX Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: SINT) (“SINTX” or the “Company”), an original equipment manufacturer of silicon nitride ceramic for medical and non-medical applications, announced new studies confirming that its material inactivates SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the Influenza A virus that is responsible for the common cold.

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Illustration of SARS-CoV-2 showing spikes on the outer surface of the virus. (Graphic: Business Wire)

Previous findings had shown that SINTX’s silicon nitride can inactivate SARS-CoV-2, as well as other single-strand RNA (ssRNA) viruses such as Influenza A, Feline calicivirus, and Enterovirus. Those findings were first reported in June 2020 on BioRxiv, a pre-print server for COVID-19 research ahead of peer review. Data related to the other ssRNA viruses are under peer review for publication.

The latest SARS-CoV-2 testing was done at the National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, George Mason University, Virginia (GMU). The study was designed to (1) reproduce the earlier findings using an independent institution and study protocol, and (2) show a time-and-dose-dependent antiviral effect of silicon nitride, and (3) establish a U.S.-based testing facility for future testing of commercial products, such as fabrics containing silicon nitride.

The GMU data confirm that silicon nitride strongly inhibits SARS-CoV-2, after just one minute of exposure. The anti-viral effect increases with higher doses and longer duration of exposure to silicon nitride. Importantly, silicon nitride is non-toxic to mammalian cells, a finding that is consistent with the successful clinical outcomes of SINTX’s spinal implants made of the same material as was tested at GMU.

Separate testing at another contract research facility, ImQuest BioSciences, Frederick, Maryland, showed that SINTX’s silicon nitride strongly inactivates the Influenza A virus as well. Selected data from that testing is shown in the graph above.

“The ability of silicon nitride to effectively terminate the SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A viruses is of importance, as the world braces for the flu season, with SARS-CoV-2 still around,” said Dr. Sonny Bal, President, and CEO of SINTX Technologies. “We are moving at full speed to incorporate silicon nitride into consumer masks that will catch-and-kill these respiratory pathogens. Beyond face masks, the antipathogenic advantages of silicon nitride will benefit schools, nursing homes, hospitals, casinos, cruise ships, day-care centers, commercial travel, and many other markets. Our R&D will advance the science, while external partners develop commercial products.”