The herpes zoster mRNA vaccine jointly developed by Shanghai Institute of Biological Products Co Ltd (SIBP) and RongCan (Shanghai) Biotech Co Ltd has been granted approval for clinical trials by the National Medical Products Administration on April 11.

It is the first mRNA vaccine developed by SIBP that has been approved for clinical trials, signifying a major breakthrough made by the company in the field of prophylactic mRNA vaccines.

The herpes zoster mRNA vaccine developed by SIBP [Photo/sinopharm.com]

The vaccine works by encoding the mRNA sequence of the varicella-zoster virus glycoprotein E, inducing the body to produce specific cellular immune responses. It is intended for the prevention of shingles caused by the varicella-zoster virus in adults aged 40 and above.

The vaccine incorporates an innovative proprietary blend of a lipid nanoparticle delivery system and novel ionizable lipids. Multiple innovative techniques covering antigen design, sequence optimization and formulation process had also been developed by SIBP with numerous core technologies in the development process.

Preclinical data show that the vaccine has strong immunogenicity and is capable of inducing high-level antibody and cellular immune responses in various animal models. Moreover, the vaccine’s safety has been sufficiently supported by preclinical data.

A technician works in a cleanroom for the formulation of herpes zoster mRNA vaccines. [Photo/sinopharm.com]

In recent years, SIBP has focused on the research, development and translation of innovative vaccines as well as the pursuit of technological self-reliance through diverse R&D models including in-house and collaborative development along with technology licensing. In the process, R&D technology platforms and quality evaluation systems for inactivated vaccines, recombinant protein vaccines, viral vector vaccines, novel adjuvanted vaccines and mRNA vaccines have been built.

Looking into the future, SIBP will continue to increase investment in scientific research, promote the development of innovative mRNA vaccines and pharmaceuticals, build high-standard R&D and industrialization platforms, and provide more premium-quality products to protect the health of humanity.