Bart Lambrecht (VIB-UGent Center for Inflammation research) has taken the lead in several clinical trials that are running under the promotorship of University Hospital Ghent across Belgium, in partnership with VIB. Some trials repurpose existing drugs to treat patients infected with COVID-19. A first trial is evaluating the effect of inhaled Leukine® on lung function and patient outcomes. A second approach focuses on several existing rheumatism medications to alleviate the excessive inflammatory reaction in severely affected COVID-19 patients. Two other trials employ new drugs to target the pro-inflammatory and  pro-coagulant complement system. 

University Hospital Ghent and VIB are assessing a drug called Leukine® to treat patients with respiratory illness associated with COVID-19.  Major medical centers in Germany and Italy are considering joining the study.  The study will evaluate the effect of Leukine® on lung function and patient outcomes.