TOPSHOT – A visitor washes his hands before entering Kyeshero Hospital at a checkpoint for hand washing and temperature screening for all visitors and patients entering Kyeshero Hospital, as part of Ebola prevention measures in Goma on May 18, 2026. (Photo by Jospin Mwisha / AFP via Getty Images)
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In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a series of new clinical trials is either underway or planned, marking a first since the onset of the Ebola outbreak. These trials aim to assess novel therapies that may enhance survival rates.
The need for new treatments arises from the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, which lacks approved vaccines or therapies to curb its spread. This virus has proven challenging to manage, leading to over 500 reported deaths and 1,561 confirmed cases, according to the CDC. Factors such as armed conflict, displacement, healthcare facility attacks, and limited contact tracing have further complicated efforts to control the outbreak.
The trials will evaluate the effectiveness of two drugs, MBP-134 and remdesivir, in treating the Bundibugyo Ebola virus. These drugs will be tested both individually and in combination. Additionally, another trial will explore whether obeldesivir, an antiviral oral pill, can prevent the disease in individuals exposed to the virus. This initiative reflects a collaborative effort involving the WHO, Africa CDC, universities, and various non-profit organizations.
MBP-134
MBP-134 is emerging as a promising treatment for infectious diseases, particularly Ebola. It contains two broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibodies that can identify multiple Ebola species, including the Bundibugyo virus. These antibodies attach to the virus’s surface glycoprotein, blocking entry into human cells and enlisting the immune system to destroy infected cells. Early data indicates this intravenous therapy could be effective against the Bundibugyo virus.
Remdesivir
Remdesivir is an antiviral drug that targets a variety of viruses, such as COVID-19, hepatitis C, Marburg, and Ebola. Given intravenously, it works by entering infected cells and disrupting the virus’s ability to replicate its genetic material, thus reducing new virus production and potentially allowing the immune system to combat the infection. Although previously ineffective against the Zaire Ebolavirus, there is hope it might be beneficial against the Bundibugyo strain, especially in combination with MBP-134.
Obeldesivir
Post-exposure prophylaxis is vital in containing the Ebola spread in the DRC. It prevents those exposed to the virus from succumbing to the disease. To address this, a clinical trial will soon test obeldesivir, an oral antiviral similar to remdesivir, to determine its effectiveness as a post-exposure prophylactic. Participants will take the pill twice daily during the trial.
Clinical Trials
The clinical trials aim to enroll at least 1,000 participants, although final numbers will depend on how the outbreak progresses. The trials are expected to last several months, requiring regulatory approval, participant enrollment, robust result demonstration, and data analysis. Challenges include obtaining participant cooperation in a region affected by armed conflict and political instability, which could impede recruitment efforts.
The Future
These clinical trials offer hope to the people of the DRC facing one of the most severe Ebola outbreaks recorded. Beyond addressing the immediate crisis, they represent a culmination of years of scientific investment and the potential of global collaboration to expedite research during public health emergencies. Should these trials succeed, MBP-134, remdesivir, and obeldesivir would become the first evidence-based treatments for the Bundibugyo Ebola virus, enhancing readiness for future outbreaks worldwide.
