Breaking -Bharat Biotech for COVAXIN to use Kansas-based ViroVax adjuvant for boosting immunity

Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech who is one of the leading vaccine candidates has announced will use adjuvant Alhydroxiquim-II which will boost immunity response and longer-lasting immunity. The technology is being used under this licensing agreement with Kansas-based ViroVax LLC.

Bharat Biotech is currently conducting Phase II human trials of COVAXIN after receiving approval from the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI).

“There is critical need for development and availability of adjuvants that elucidate mechanisms of action inducing greater antibody responses to vaccine antigens, thus resulting in long-term protection against pathogens. Adjuvants also enhance the sustainability of the global vaccine supply on account of their antigen-sparing effect. Our partnership with ViroVax resonates with Bharat Biotech’s relentless efforts towards developing safe and effective vaccines coupled with long term immunity.”says Dr Krishna Ella, Chairman and Managing Director ,Bharat Biotech

“The widely used adjuvant Aluminium hydroxide in the development of SARS CoV-2 vaccines is known to induce a Th2 based response (which are important for eradication of extracellular parasites and bacterial infection). The Th2 based response has a theoretical risk of vaccine associated enhanced respiratory diseases (VAERD or ADE). We have used Imidazoquinoline class of adjuvants (TLR7/8 agonists), which are known to induce Th1 based response which further reduces the risk of ADE (Anti-Body Dependent Enhancement). Dr Krishna Ella Further added