CureVac NV announced today that it has identified a promising mRNA flu vaccine candidate for further clinical development. The selection was based on positive results from an early-stage study conducted in collaboration with GSK PLC.
Advancing to Phase 2 Study
The investigational vaccine offers broad antigen coverage against flu strains recommended by the World Health Organization. CureVac plans to advance this innovative vaccine candidate to a phase 2 study. The company expects dosing of the first study participant to begin in the fourth quarter of this year.
Overcoming Challenges in Influenza Vaccines
Dr. Myriam Mendila, CureVac’s chief development officer, emphasized the potential of their mRNA technology platform. She stated that the platform’s speed and flexibility present significant opportunities to overcome current challenges associated with providing seasonally updated and highly effective influenza vaccines.
Positive Market Performance
Shares of CureVac experienced a premarket increase of 1.5% following this announcement. Year to date, their stocks have risen more than 40%. In contrast, the S&P 500 index has gained 16.9% during the same period.
