PROBLEM

SARS-CoV-2 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) drive significant global morbidity. New SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants are causing frequent and often severe infections, while RSV remains a leading cause of severe respiratory disease in infants and young children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals.

Co-infections of SARS-CoV-2 and RSV are increasingly common and worsen clinical outcomes. Current intramuscular vaccines generate strong systemic antibodies; however, mucosal immunity in the respiratory tract (primary site of infection, replication, & transmission) remains weak. As a result, current vaccines reduce severe disease but offer limited prevention of infection and transmission, leaving high-risk populations vulnerable.

SOLUTION

Researchers at The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s Hospital have developed a novel platform of live attenuated SARS-CoV-2 Omicron JN.1-based vaccine candidates, including bivalent constructs that also deliver a stabilized RSV F antigen. Through strategic attenuation, this platform generates a safe, genetically stable, and highly protective intranasal vaccine that mimics natural infection, resulting in robust mucosal and systemic immunity. Preclinical in vivo models demonstrate this bivalent vaccine provides complete protection against both SARS-CoV-2 and RSV.

APPLICATIONS

• Intranasal bivalent vaccine for SARS-CoV-2 and RSV
• An adaptable platform for production of next-gen multivalent respiratory vaccines other respiratory pathogens

ADVANTAGES

• Generates rapid, durable, broad protection against infection, replication, and transmission
• Mimics natural infection to promote strong systemic and mucosal immunity
• Cost effective bivalent vaccine production
• Genetically stable, reducing risk of reversion
• Highly adaptable to newly emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, as well as other respiratory pathogens

Seeking opportunities for out-licensing, co-development, and collaboration