Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) Invests in MERS Vaccine

In an exciting step forward in the fight against coronaviruses, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has announced a $2.6 million investment aimed at advancing Uvax Bio's vaccine candidate for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) into preclinical trials. This initiative marks a critical milestone towards developing the first-ever vaccine specifically targeting MERS, a virus notorious for its high fatality rate.

Understanding MERS and Its Impact

MERS, caused by the MERS coronavirus, is part of the same viral family as COVID-19. Transmitted primarily from camels to humans, it has a jaw-dropping fatality rate of over 35%, far exceeding that of COVID-19. Since its identification in 2012, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recorded more than 2,600 cases worldwide, underscoring the urgency for effective vaccines.

Innovative Technology Behind the Vaccine

The funding will enable Uvax Bio, a spin-off from the esteemed Scripps Research Institute, to utilize its innovative protein nanoparticle technology, known as 1c-SApNP® (one-component SApNP), to create a vaccine that closely mimics the structure of the MERS virus. This cutting-edge technology is designed to enhance the immune response by presenting up to 20 different viral antigens at once, thus stimulating both antibody and T cell immunity.

Expert Insights on Vaccine Development