INDIA — The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has joined forces with Pune-based Gennova Biopharmaceuticals to revolutionize vaccine development against unknown pathogenic threats, famously dubbed ‘Disease X’.
This collaboration aims to harness the power of self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) technology, and CEPI has committed up to US$3.6 million to advance the saRNA-platform for rapid response to potential global health crises.
The term ‘Disease X’ reflects the ominous possibility of an unidentified pathogen wreaking havoc on a global scale.
The urgency of this endeavor is underscored by CEPI’s assertion that the risk of Disease X spreading rapidly among human populations has never been greater.
Under this partnership, the saRNA-platform will undergo rigorous optimization, enhancing production processes and yield.
The ultimate goal is to create a vaccine candidate targeting the rabies virus, a member of the Rhabdoviridae virus family.
This step is pivotal in evaluating the efficacy of this cutting-edge technology, as it is tested against a known virus with established markers of protection.
Dr. Melanie Saville, Executive Director of Vaccine R&D at CEPI, emphasized the pivotal role of RNA-vaccine technology in both pandemic and epidemic responses, citing its pivotal contribution to the fight against Covid-19.
The goal is to ensure equitable and swift access to such technology when the next Disease X challenge emerges.
At the heart of the saRNA approach lies the integration of genetic information from specific virus groups into the saRNA, alongside the desired antigen.
This combination prompts the host cell to generate multiple copies of the saRNA, enabling rapid self-amplification.
Distinctive to Gennova’s saRNA technology is the CLNE delivery system, setting it apart from conventional mRNA vaccines.
Unlike lipid nanoparticles that encapsulate mRNA molecules, Gennova’s approach attaches RNA molecules to the surface of fatty molecules, creating a nanoemulsion.
This innovation streamlines scalability and transferability of potential vaccine candidates among different manufacturers.
Gennova’s proven success with mRNA-based Covid-19 vaccines, which secured emergency use approval in India, underscores the efficacy and potential of the saRNA platform.
Dr. Sanjay Singh, CEO of Gennova Biopharmaceuticals, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting their collective commitment to democratizing vaccine access and readiness in the face of global health threats.
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