Vaccitech Ltd., a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing T cell induction products for infectious diseases and cancer, has received a UK Government grant to support research with its next-generation technology platform to protect against COVID-19. The grant is part of the UKRI-NIHR COVID-19 rapid response rolling call for proposals with potential to deliver public health impacts within 12 months.

Preclinical data indicate Vaccitech’s new platform induces leading antibody and cell-mediated immune responses, two arms of the immune system known to protect against disease, when compared with the adenoviral platforms currently in vaccine trials for COVID-19.

Vaccitech was awarded £155k for the first phase of the project worth up to £2.3m in funding. With the grant proceeds, Vaccitech will complete preclinical studies and manufacture sufficient quantities required to initiate a Phase I study in 2021. Depending on clinical success, the vaccine could be a standalone product candidate and/or could be used to improve upon regimens of first-generation COVID-19 vaccines. If successful, the same technology platform could also be used in future epidemics to produce a vaccine against the relevant infectious agent quickly and effectively.

“We are excited with this Government recognition and support to rapidly advance our innovative technologies and potentially bring additional tools in the fight against this global pandemic”, said Bill Enright, Vaccitech Chief Executive Officer.

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