The immunogen was co-developed by researchers at the Vaccine Research Center of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, and at the University of Texas at Austin
Vaxess Technologies partners with Medigen. (Credit: Pixabay/PIRO4D)
Vaxess Technologies, an innovative biotechnology company developing the MIMIX smart release patch, has formed a partnership with Taiwanese pharmaceutical company, Medigen Vaccine Biologics Corp, to develop a combined COVID-19 and quadrivalent seasonal influenza vaccine (QIV), delivered via the novel MIMIX patch system.
The vaccine in development uses a stabilized form of the spike protein (S-2P) from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This immunogen was co-developed by researchers at the Vaccine Research Center of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, and at the University of Texas at Austin. The modified spike sequence provides a more stabilized version of the spike protein compared to wild-type sequences, and has shown a strong immunogenicity profile in preclinical trials. MVC aims to enter phase I clinical trials in September of 2020, with an adjuvanted intramuscular injection of the vaccine. In parallel, Vaxess will initiate a U.S. clinical trial using the company’s MIMIX platform technology.
The MIMIX patch is unique in its capacity to enhance vaccine efficacy as well as ease administration and global distribution. The MIMIX platform utilizes sustained release technology to stimulate a more powerful and durable immune response to fight infections. Vaxess is combining the novel COVID-19 vaccine with a broadly protective seasonal influenza vaccine into one convenient patch. This will allow for a seasonal protection vaccine in a single-dose, shelf-stable, simple-to-apply presentation, contributing to addressing an endemic COVID.
“As COVID becomes endemic, the world will need a regular seasonal vaccination,” said Vaxess CEO Michael Schrader. “Combining Medigen’s impressive COVID vaccine with a broadly protective influenza vaccine in a shelf-stable, easy-to-apply patch will dramatically improve global access and, ultimately, protection against both lethal diseases.”
“We are excited to partner with Vaxess in the development of a potential broad spectrum vaccine and novel delivery system to help fight COVID-19 and seasonal influenza,” said Charles Chen, Chief Executive Officer of Medigen. “At MVC, we like to collaborate with companies that may bring innovative platforms forward that have the potential to improve vaccination practices.”
Source: Company Press Release