Pune-based Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Limited will develop a groundbreaking self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccine against the deadly Nipah virus. This initiative is supported by an expanded funding agreement from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) worth up to $13.38 million. To accelerate vaccine development, Gennova will collaborate with the Houston Methodist Research Institute (HMRI), a CEPI partner, utilizing its advanced AI technology to optimize viral proteins that could trigger an effective immune response.
The Threat of Nipah Virus
Nipah virus, part of the Paramyxovirus family, is one of the deadliest pathogens affecting humans. While outbreaks have been primarily confined to South and Southeast Asia, its natural host—the fruit bat—exists across large regions worldwide, potentially putting over 2 billion people at risk.
CEPI’s Commitment to Fighting Nipah
As per the CEPI press release, Dr. Kent Kester, Executive Director of Vaccine Research and Development at CEPI, emphasized the urgency of developing a vaccine. “With no approved vaccines or specific treatments for Nipah, CEPI is leading global efforts by committing over $100 million to its Nipah programs. We have advanced the first-ever Nipah vaccine candidates into Phase 1 trials,” he said.
He also highlighted Gennova’s role in validating the saRNA platform. “This work will not only test the suitability of saRNA for Nipah but also its potential in a broader RNA-based vaccine strategy, enabling rapid responses to emerging Disease X threats within just 100 days of identification.”
How saRNA Vaccines Work
mRNA vaccines instruct the body to produce antigenic proteins, triggering an immune response. Unlike traditional mRNA vaccines, saRNA vaccines provide the body with instructions to replicate mRNA, potentially enhancing immune response while requiring lower doses.
Expanding CEPI’s RNA Vaccine Platform
In August 2023, CEPI initially granted Gennova $3.6 million to optimize its saRNA technology for vaccine development against unknown threats, also known as Disease X. This funding is part of CEPI’s broader initiative to advance novel RNA vaccine platforms for emerging and endemic diseases. These platforms offer potential benefits over existing mRNA technologies. Advantages include multivalency, improved immunogenicity, and enhanced storage stability. They also enable faster production and lower costs.
Gennova’s Commitment to Global Health Security
Dr. Sanjay Singh, CEO of Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Limited, expressed optimism about the collaboration with CEPI and HMRI. “By leveraging the power of our saRNA platform, we aim to develop a next-generation vaccine against Nipah. This partnership sets new benchmarks for rapid mRNA vaccine development while ensuring equitable access and strengthening global health security,” Singh stated.
Ensuring Equitable Access to Vaccines
CEPI remains committed to making vaccines and technologies accessible to populations most at risk. Under its agreement with CEPI, Gennova has pledged to prioritize vaccine availability for vulnerable populations at an affordable price. Additionally, Gennova has committed to potential technology transfers. This will enable its saRNA platform to support future vaccine developments aligned with CEPI’s global health mission.