Vicebio Secures $100 Million to Revolutionize Respiratory Virus Vaccines

2024-10-08 bio

Amsterdam, Tuesday, 8 October 2024.
UK-based Vicebio raised $100 million in Series B funding to develop innovative vaccines against respiratory viruses using their Molecular Clamp technology. The company’s lead candidate, VXB-241, targets both RSV and hMPV, addressing a significant unmet medical need. Initial clinical results are expected by mid-2025.

Understanding Molecular Clamp Technology

Vicebio’s innovative Molecular Clamp technology represents a significant advancement in the field of vaccine development. Originating from research at the University of Queensland, this technology stabilizes viral glycoproteins in their highly immunogenic ‘prefusion’ conformation. This structure is crucial for eliciting strong protective immune responses, as it effectively presents stabilized viral proteins directly to the immune system, enhancing the body’s ability to recognize and combat viruses. This method differs from other vaccine technologies, such as mRNA or viral vector vaccines, by providing a more controlled and effective immune response[1][2].

The Impact on Global Health

The development of vaccines using Molecular Clamp technology could have a transformative impact on global health, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly and immunocompromised individuals. Respiratory viruses such as RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and hMPV (Human Metapneumovirus) are known to cause significant health burdens, especially in these groups. By targeting these viruses, Vicebio aims to address critical unmet medical needs and reduce the incidence of severe respiratory diseases. With the global market for respiratory vaccines projected to reach nearly $70 billion in 2024, Vicebio’s advancements could play a pivotal role in shaping future healthcare solutions[1][3].

Investment and Development

Vicebio’s $100 million Series B funding round was led by TCGX, with substantial investments from Goldman Sachs Alternatives, Avoro Ventures, and venBio, along with participation from UniQuest and founding investor Medicxi. This substantial financial backing underscores the confidence investors have in Vicebio’s Molecular Clamp technology and its potential to revolutionize vaccine development. The funding will accelerate the development of VXB-241, which is currently in Phase I clinical trials, with preliminary results anticipated by mid-2025. Additionally, it will support the broader multivalent vaccine pipeline, including a trivalent vaccine candidate targeting RSV, hMPV, and Parainfluenza Virus 3 (PIV3)[1][4][5].

Future Prospects and Challenges

Looking ahead, Vicebio is poised to expand its influence in the biotech sector with its second-generation Molecular Clamp technology. Despite previous setbacks during COVID-19 vaccine trials, which led to false-positive HIV test results, the technology has since been refined for enhanced safety and efficacy. The company’s commitment to developing multivalent vaccines could redefine vaccine strategies across the globe, particularly as the need for comprehensive respiratory virus protection continues to grow. Vicebio’s efforts are part of a broader trend in the industry, with companies like Moderna and GSK also pursuing multivalent vaccines to address multiple respiratory pathogens simultaneously[1][6].

Bronnen

www.labiotech.eu Vicebio pulse2.com Vaccine pharmaphorum.com www.ddw-online.com vaccinenation.org