Emcure's Subsidiary, Gennova, Advances Nipah Virus Vaccine Development with CEPI Funding and AI Technology
Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Limited, a subsidiary of Emcure Pharmaceuticals Limited, is advancing the development of a self-amplifying mRNA (saRNA) vaccine against the deadly Nipah virus. This critical initiative is supported by an expanded partnership with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), with funding of up to US$13.38 million. Gennova will also team up with US-based Houston Methodist Research Institute (HMRI) to use their cutting-edge AI technology to optimize the properties of proteins derived from the virus. Preclinical and phase 1 vaccine tests will be done by Gennova in India, where multiple Nipah outbreaks have been reported over the past 20 years. The saRNA vaccines work by giving the body instructions to replicate mRNA needed to create the desired antigen, potentially enhancing the immune response with lower doses compared to existing mRNA vaccines.
Key Highlights
- Gennova is developing a saRNA vaccine against the Nipah virus with CEPI funding.
- The company is collaborating with Houston Methodist Research Institute to use AI technology for vaccine development.
- Preclinical and phase 1 vaccine tests will be conducted in India.
- saRNA vaccines have the potential to enhance the immune response with lower doses compared to existing mRNA vaccines.
- CEPI is committed to ensuring equitable access to the vaccines, products and innovations it supports.