Novel broad spectrum SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine Gene
Keywords
vaccine,SARS-CoV-2,Corona,spike protein variant,adenoviral vector,booster vaccination
Invention Novelty
Scientists of the Charité University Hospital Berlin have developed a novel adenovirus-based vaccine against SARS-CoV-2 which is superior to existing vaccines and provides substantially enhanced and broadened immune protection against virus variants.
Value Proposition
The use of an adenoviral vector for gene delivery offers a needle-free route of application (e. g. as a nasal spray) which is likely to improve acceptance, to reduce side effects, and to allow self-application (no medical staff required). Especially when using an adenoviral serotype 2 vector (hAd2), vaccine neutralization by a previous adenoviral vaccination (with Ad5 or Ad26) is rendered obsolete and thus a maximum of immune protection can be reached. Additionally, the simple and inexpensive manufacturing process as well as a high storage stability make such a vaccine an effective while affordable solution for low-income countries and simplify worldwide distribution.
Comparison of neutralizing antibodies raised in mice after single nasal application of an adenoviral vector (Ad2) encoding the new “AL” vaccine gene (red), the exisiting Wuhan B1-based vaccine gene (blue), or an Omicron BA1-based vaccine gene (green). Source: PCT application
Technology Description
A vaccine derived from the novel vaccine gene, termed “AL”, is clearly superior in its neutralizing properties compared to the currently applied Wuhan-B1 derived vaccine. Importantly, previous Omicron variant-based vaccine genes only neutralize the own subtype, but mostly fail to neutralize the older virus variants (alpha - delta) as well as other omicron subtypes (like Omicron BA5). Future SARS-CoV-2 broad-spectrum vaccine design will require bivalent vaccines composed of a gene which provides broad basic protection and a second component which is directed to the currently dominant virus variant. In this concept the novel AL vaccine gene is expected to become a key component.
Commercial Opportunity
For this technology we are looking for a licensing or/and cooperation partner for further development.
Development Status
Mutation-adapted vaccine genes were inserted into an adenoviral vector and intranasally vaccinated into mice. Mice sera were tested in neutralization assays for the ability to induce neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 of the original strain as well as several variants.
Patent Situation
EP priority application (EP4183409A1) pending with priority of Nov. 17, 2021. PCT application filed Nov. 17, 2022.
Institute of Origin
