Covid-19 Qld: Global first virus-like particle vaccine to be trialled on Sunshine Coast
Healthy vaccinated and unvaccinated people are needed for a global-first trial, which scientists believe could be key to protecting against new strains of coronavirus.
A world-first trial on a possible “next-generation” Covid-19 vaccine will soon begin in Queensland, with scientists hoping they will be able to provide better protection against the virus.
The University of Sunshine Coast clinical trials of the virus-like particle vaccine produced by American company Icosavax will be the first in the world.
If effective, this type of vaccine could be used to treat new coronavirus strains as they emerge.
Unlike the vaccines used in Australia at the moment, this potential new type of vaccine contains no genetic material; rather the virus-like particles display multiple copies of the protective antigens in a manner that closely resembles the virus.
The study aims to assess the safety and ability of the VLP vaccine to generate good immune response in two groups – the first group who have never had Covid-19 nor received a Covid-19 vaccine, while the second group will be made up of participants who have been fully vaccinated.
Principal investigator Rob Scott said the trial would aim to identify the optimal dose and safety of the VLP vaccine that has been produced using nanoparticle technology.
“Licensed VLP vaccines are well known to induce a robust and durable immune response,” Dr Scott said.
USC clinical trials director Lucas Litewka said the need for new and ongoing research into potential Covid-19 vaccines was “fundamental” to improving pandemic response.
“We hope to build upon our experience in Covid-19 vaccine clinical trials to partner on this new and innovative vaccine technology,” he said.
The study, to be conducted at Sippy Downs and Morayfield locations, requires healthy participants aged between 18 and 69.
Those interested should visit the USC clinical trials website.
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