Pharmaceutical Business review

Vical receives European patent for TransVax

TransVax is used for the prevention of reactivation of latent cytomegalovirus (CMV) or introduction of CMV through donor cells or tissues in transplant recipients.

The vaccine is formulated with a poloxamer designed to enhance primarily a cellular immune response.

TransVax has received orphan drug status for transplant patients.

Vical released encouraging results from a completed Phase 2 trial of the vaccine in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplants, in September 2010.

Currently, Vical is in talks with regulatory authorities to confirm the design of a planned Phase 3 trial, which is expected to begin in the second half of 2011.