Funding received to develop intranasal vaccine for avian influenza
Contract virology research company, Retroscreen Virology Ltd has, as part of a pan European Consortium, received Euro 630,050 in funding from the seventh framework EU grant (FP7) for research into an intranasal vaccine against diverse strains of avian influenza (H5N1).
Contract virology research company, Retroscreen Virology Ltd has, as part of a pan European Consortium, received Euro 630,050 in funding from the seventh framework EU grant (FP7) for research into an intranasal vaccine against diverse strains of avian influenza (H5N1).
Although its primary focus is on the H5N1 strain, the consortium plans to invest these funds in the development of a vaccine that also induces immunity against more diverse strains of the influenza virus, thereby providing greater protection than is currently available. A key objective of the study is the development of a readily available, intranasal vaccine that is effective at a low dose.
Current vaccines are required in high doses and have complex manufacturing processes, so stockpiles are likely to be inadequate if a global pandemic were to break out.
The nasal mucosa is the first line of defence for airborne pathogens such as influenza. This new intranasal vaccine will raise mucosal antibodies, thus halting the virus at its point of entry. Additionally, the vaccine will induce systemic immunity within the body. A major advantage of the intranasal approach is that it avoids the use of needles, making it more user-friendly. This increases compliance as well as reducing the risks associated with syringes. The potential for self-administration could also reduce the cost of delivery; vital in countries that may be at risk of an outbreak but have limited funds.
Dr Robert Lambkin-Williams, md of Retroscreen Virology, said: 'The funding we and our partners have received from the seventh framework EU grant (FP7) is vital in helping us reach our goal of producing an effective, easy-to-use vaccine against avian influenza. The threat of a global pandemic is very real and highlights an important medical need because adequate vaccines in large supply are simply not available. We are collaborating with leading industrial and academic institutions to develop a vaccine that will not only meet this global demand but also provide cross-immunity against mutated strains of the virus."