Transgene Unveils Positive Preclinical Results for its Mpox Vaccine
On Tuesday, Transgene announced the preclinical results of TG-MVA, a prophylactic vaccine candidate against monkeypox (mpox), leveraging its historical expertise in MVA viral vectors. The Strasbourg-based biotech, focused on its therapeutic cancer vaccine platform (Myvac), is now evaluating various development options for this new prophylactic vaccine program against infectious diseases.
A Viral Vector Transposed to Infectious Diseases
Transgene is utilizing its expertise in engineering Modified Vaccinia Ankara (MVA) viral vectors, historically developed for smallpox vaccination, to design TG-MVA against monkeypox virus infection. The candidate is available in two formulations: TG-MVACEF (produced on chicken embryonic cells using traditional methods) and TG-MVACL (produced on avian cell line in suspension, allowing for simplified industrial scaling).
The preclinical data, obtained in mice and non-human primates, demonstrate a protective effect of TG-MVA after exposure to the monkeypox virus, as well as a rapid and robust antiviral immune response. TG-MVACL is considered the preferred candidate for further clinical development, due to its large-volume production capabilities and modulability.
A Response to Pandemic Challenges and Biosecurity Issues
Transgene justifies its pivot towards infectious diseases due to the low global immunization against Orthopoxviruses and the current limitations in vaccine supply against monkeypox. The development of TG-MVA aims to ensure the availability of a vaccine alternative and to enhance preparedness against emerging risks related to mpox variants and bioterrorism.
Dr. Alessandro Riva, CEO of Transgene, states that the company's strategy "remains resolutely focused on our Myvac platform" dedicated to therapeutic cancer vaccines. Transgene applies its business model of generating proof of principle and concept to valorize its innovative technologies and facilitate partnerships or collaborations. The preclinical results will be presented orally at the World Congress on Infectious Diseases, from June 25 to 27 in Barcelona.
