Pune-based Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Limited will develop a self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccine. This initiative is backed by CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations), with funding of up to $13.38 million.
To accelerate vaccine development, Gennova will collaborate with Houston Methodist Research Institute (HMRI) (a CEPI partner), utilizing cutting-edge AI technology to optimize Nipah virus proteins that stimulate the immune system. These optimized proteins will serve as potential vaccine targets for laboratory and clinical investigations.
About Self-Amplifying mRNA (saRNA) Vaccines
How mRNA Vaccines Work?
- Traditional mRNA vaccines use the body’s machinery to produce antigenic proteins, triggering an immune response.
How saRNA Vaccines Improve Upon This?
- saRNA vaccines provide instructions for the body to replicate mRNA, leading to enhanced immune responses.
- This mechanism enables lower doses to achieve immunity, making them more efficient than traditional mRNA vaccines.
Understanding the Nipah Virus
- It belongs to the Paramyxovirus family.
- It is one of the deadliest pathogens known to infect humans.
- Its outbreaks have occurred in South and Southeast Asia.
- The fruit bat vector is found across a large global population (>2 billion people), raising concerns about future outbreaks.