Novavax scientists created four vaccine candidates to protect against four different subtypes of human and avian influenza, including H5N1, the strain that could possibly set off a pandemic outbreak.
These virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines, which have the three-dimensional structure of the influenza virus but don't contain genetic material, have been tested in three animal models, noted Dr Rick Bright, Novavax vice president of global influenza programs.
Data show each vaccine candidate triggered an immune response robust enough to protect against infection at very low doses of vaccine. Two of Novavax's vaccine candidates were tested in ferrets, the influenza animal model that is most relevant to humans. These vaccine candidates produced robust immune responses that provided protection against a variety of influenza strains, including strains not included in the vaccines.
“Our data demonstrate the potential for a single vaccine to protect against a range of influenza strains,” Dr Rick Bright said. “This can be a critical factor in a pandemic situation, since a new vaccine would not have to be created every time the virus mutates.”
Novavax also has the capability to scale up manufacture of its influenza vaccines rapidly using portable, disposable equipment. This manufacturing system does not rely on traditional egg-based methods for vaccine production, which are complex and require months of preparation.
Novavax plans to begin human clinical trials of its pandemic influenza vaccine during the first half of 2007.