VaxInnate [1] is in a tight race to develop the first "universal" flu vaccine that would be able to tackle a variety of influenzas and do away with the annual winter jab. Acambis [2], Merck and Dynavax [3] are also pushing new vaccines in this race as well, but in interviews with the Star-Ledger, VaxInnate's research staff sounds confident that they will come out ahead with M2-flagellin. The work involves fusing two different genetic codes into a protein that spurs the immune system to ward of all varieties of flu. And using a recombinant DNA production approach, any new vaccine they make won't rely on the slow process required by egg-based production in use today.

VaxInnate is undertaking a Phase I study at the University of Texas, courtesy of a $9.5 million grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The company says that it has enough money [4] to make it through Phase II. At that point, say researchers, they can line up a marketing partner to plan a late-stage study.

- see VaxInnate's release [5] on the trial
- read the profile [6] from The Star-Ledger

Related Articles:
VaxInnate gains $40M in third round. Report [7]
Acambis' universal vaccine begins human clinical trials. Report [8]
Dynavax pursues universal flu vaccine. Report [9]