A University of Georgia-based start-up, CyanVac LLC, announces it will commence a clinical trial for a nasal COVID-19 vaccine this fall, bolstered by federal funding. The innovative trial is funded by Project NextGen, a federal initiative managed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services aimed at advancing next-generation COVID-19 vaccines and treatments.
The new vaccine utilizes a unique viral delivery platform that incorporates modified strains of canine influenza virus, which causes kennel cough in dogs. This platform aims to stimulate a robust immune response against COVID-19 when administered nasally, potentially offering a more convenient and non-invasive alternative to traditional intramuscular injections.
The Phase 2b clinical trial will assess the safety and efficacy of CyanVac’s nasal vaccine in comparison to an FDA-approved mRNA vaccine currently deployed to protect against severe COVID-19 illness. The trial’s objectives include evaluating the nasal vaccine’s ability to prevent infection, reduce transmission, and elicit strong mucosal immunity in the respiratory tract, which is the primary entry point for the virus.
CyanVac CEO Dr. Biao He expresses optimism about the trial’s potential impact, stating, “We are excited to explore the benefits of a nasal vaccine, which could revolutionize the way we protect against respiratory viruses like COVID-19. Our platform has shown promise in preclinical studies, and we look forward to advancing this important research.”
Project NextGen’s support underscores the federal government’s commitment to developing innovative solutions to combat COVID-19 and improve public health outcomes. By funding such cutting-edge research, the initiative seeks to diversify the arsenal of vaccines available to fight the pandemic and prepare for future outbreaks.
The trial, set to begin in the coming months, will enroll participants who have not yet received a COVID-19 vaccine, as well as those who have been previously vaccinated but may benefit from a booster that targets mucosal immunity. Results from the trial will provide crucial data on the effectiveness of the nasal vaccine and its potential role in the ongoing efforts to control and ultimately end the pandemic.
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
