These results were obtained through collaborative clinical trial with Far East Bio-Tech Co., Ltd. (FEBICO).

During the clinical trial, 32 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 took the blue microalgae protein tablets for 28 days, while a control group of 26 patients did not.  The results showed that the extracted protein tablets could effectively accelerate the recovery process and normalize body temperature. Additionally, they reduced the fever duration to just a day, showing a significant difference in clinical statistics (p-value < 0.0001). C. Chiueh, FEBICO's founder, stated that the study demonstrates the broad-spectrum antiviral effects of the patented blue microalgae protein extract from the specially cultivated FEM-101 algal strain. It has been proven to combat eight major viruses, contributing to the development of preventive medicine by directly targeting viruses and enhancing precise healthcare. Dr. Fu-Lun Chen, visiting staff in the Department of Infectious Diseases at Wanfang Hospital, noted that the study shows the protein’s ability to interfere with the adhesion of viruses to host cells. It forms a protective barrier in the oral and respiratory mucosa when administered orally or as a spray, offering new approaches for future virus prevention and treatment.

Yu-Jen Hsiao, Dean of TMU Office of Business Development, remarked that the positive outcome of the industry-academia collaboration could contribute to precise prevention and effective suppression of common viruses such as SARS-CoV-2, enterovirus, influenza viruses, parainfluenza virus, rotavirus, respiratory syncytial virus, varicella-zoster virus, etc. With the research yielding positive results in the clinical trials, the development of medicine in the near future is anticipated.

TMU believes that by fostering positive collaboration among industry, academia, and its affiliated hospitals, it can enhance medical advancements. In addition, with these groundbreaking findings, TMU can promote further innovation in the healthcare field such as preventive healthcare, ultimately benefiting society at large.