Kineta has been awarded a $6.8m subcontract from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The grant is awarded to develop novel vaccine adjuvants (agents that help boost the immune system). The Kineta subcontract is part of a larger $13m award to the University of Washington.
Reportedly, Michael Gale, UW associate professor of immunology, adjunct associate professor of global health and microbiology, and affiliate investigator of the clinical research division of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, will serve as program director and principal investigator to direct the studies on the contract.
As per the terms of the five year contract, Kineta will identify, analyse and initiate preclinical studies on small molecules that activate the retinoic acid inducible gene I (RIG-I) pathway of the innate immune response. Dr Gale’s lab will evaluate the mechanisms of action of the selected lead compounds and develop methods of optimisation.
Michael Gale, associate professor of immunology at University of Washington, said: “More effective and potent vaccines are in critical need here in the US and around the world, particularly to address key viral infections, including infections from the influenza viruses and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). In addition, there is an important need to develop novel adjuvants to support the development of an effective vaccine against hepatitis C virus.”