Immune Targeting Systems and WCCT Global announce a new influenza A H1N1 virus to support the experimental human viral challenge model

To determine the effectiveness of FlunisynTM ITS produced its own live influenza challenge agent derived from the recently circulating Influenza A/California/2009 (H1N1) virus. This challenge virus, manufactured in compliance with the high level of quality and characterization required by the U.S. FDA and other Regulatory Agencies, has a much better infectivity profile than reported for similar challenge viruses. Whilst the main purpose in developing its own challenge virus was to advance the development of FlunisynTM and to further understand the natural course of influenza illness, ITS wants to make the virus available to enable and support the development of new antiviral drugs and vaccines.

Immune Targeting Systems announced today an asset purchase agreement with WCCT Global (WCCTG) for ITS’ proprietary developed challenge strain. Through this partnership, WCCTG has become the only commercial company offering sponsors the ability to do large scale influenza challenge studies in the United States. The Experimental Human Viral Challenge Model has become widely accepted as an alternative to traditional early stage field trials to show the efficacy of antiviral and vaccine therapies. The WCCTG facility in Costa Mesa, California, has been completely reconfigured to provide private rooms, separate ventilation and other standard containment provisions to accommodate this valuable research model and ensure the safety and comfort of the volunteers and staff.

Benjamin Chen, PhD, CEO of Immune Targeting Systems said, "We are very excited that WCCT Global has taken over the ownership of this important clinical research tool and are confident that they will use the virus to help support the development of new vaccines and antiviral drugs". Kenneth Kim, MD, CEO of WCCT Global said, " The capability to carry out the experimental influenza challenge model in conjunction with our deep-seated expertise in anti-viral drug development will surely be of great interest to our sponsors. This new capability combined with our Full Service Global capabilities, specialized influenza project teams, and deep scientific knowledge allows WCCTG to manage vaccine and antiviral development programs from First in Man through NDA submission."