Osivax Begins Phase 2a Clinical Trial for Broad-Spectrum Influenza Vaccine Booster
Osivax, a pioneering biopharmaceutical company, has achieved a significant milestone by vaccinating the first participant in its Phase 2a clinical trial of OVX836, a broad-spectrum influenza vaccine candidate.
This cutting-edge trial seeks to evaluate the efficacy of OVX836 as a booster dose for participants who received the vaccine three to five years ago.
With the potential to revolutionise influenza prevention, the study is being conducted at the Center for Vaccinology (CEVAC) at Ghent University Hospital, Belgium, and aims to enrol over 150 participants.
The trial’s Principal Investigator, an Associate Professor at Ghent University, expressed enthusiasm for supporting the ongoing evaluation of OVX836, stating that they anticipate important insights from this Phase 2a influenza booster study that could significantly impact long-term influenza prevention.
The randomised, double-blind trial will assess the immunogenicity and safety of a single intramuscular dose of OVX836 at either 180μg or 480μg. Eligible participants, aged 20-64, include those who previously received OVX836, Influvac Tetra, or a placebo in earlier studies.
The Chief Medical Officer of Osivax emphasised the broader vision behind the trial. They expressed that this milestone marks a significant step forward in their mission to develop a truly broad-spectrum, lasting flu vaccine capable of addressing the ever-evolving threat of influenza.
Furthermore, by studying the effects of a booster dose, they aim to deepen their understanding of OVX836’s potential to provide robust and sustained immune protection.
Advancing the Science of Influenza Prevention
OVX836 stands out as a first-in-class influenza A vaccine candidate targeting the nucleoprotein (NP), an internal antigen that is less prone to mutation compared to surface antigens.
This approach enables a broader and more reliable immune response. Osivax’s proprietary oligoDOM technology allows the production of a recombinant version of NP, which self-assembles into nanoparticles to stimulate potent T- and B-cell immune responses.
The vaccine has already shown promise in five clinical trials involving 1,200 participants, demonstrating a strong safety profile, immunogenicity, and efficacy.
As the current Phase 2a trial progresses, researchers aim to build on these results by exploring how booster doses could enhance and sustain immune protection against influenza. Topline results from this study are expected by the end of 2025.
Paving the Way for Long-Term Influenza Protection
With its innovative technology and commitment to combating influenza, Osivax is on the forefront of vaccine development. The Phase 2a trial represents a crucial step in the journey towards a broad-spectrum influenza vaccine that could provide lasting immunity against an ever-changing virus.
If successful, OVX836 has the potential to redefine the landscape of influenza prevention, offering hope for a future with greater protection against this pervasive health threat.
News Credits: Osivax begins phase 2a booster trial for influenza vaccine
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