Biotech company MinervaX has teamed up with Wacker Biotech to manufacture the active protein ingredients of its Group B Streptococcus (GBS) vaccine.
MinervaX's lead candidate is a protein-only vaccine containing immunogenic and proactive protein domains from specially selected surface proteins of GBS.
The vaccination has successfully completed Phase II clinical trials, and is currently being prepared for the final round of studies as a maternal vaccine designed to protect both mother and baby from GBS infection.
The data collated thus far has been promising, with the vaccine exhibiting a tolerable safety profile in pregnant people while also causing the production of functionally active antibodies.
This could reduce the healthcare system's reliance on antibiotics, which is more important than ever as antibiotic resistance poses a considerable threat.
Wacker Biotech will be responsible for the manufacture of the active ingredients that make up MinervaX's vaccine candidate.
The company will also be involved in process validation and characterisation, facilitating the vaccine's commercial manufacture if it progresses through Phase III clinical trials.
If the protein-based vaccination is successful in the final stages, Wacker Biotech will ensure its stable commercial supply from its Amsterdam site.
MinervaX's CEO, Per Fischer, said: “GBS can be life-threatening for newborn babies and is linked to over half a million preterm births annually. Following the EUR 54m financing last year, our team is advancing the development of our novel prophylactic vaccine against GBS for the benefit of all populations at risk, worldwide."
"Wacker Biotech is a robust manufacturing partner with a strong track record in late clinical and commercial supply and we look forward to collaborating with the team ahead of commencing Phase III studies.”
Ronald Eulenberger, Managing Director of Wacker Biotech B.V. in Amsterdam, added: “With our strong background in E. coli processes, process characterisation and process validation experiences, we at Wacker Biotech are perfectly suited to support MinervaX with its ongoing programme for the prevention of invasive GBS disease.”
