Technology Overview

Ligands for DNA/RNA sensing intracellular pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs) i.e. dsDNA/dsRNA can be used as an adjuvant to upregulate and bias towards a Th1 response. This is of particular use in vaccinations targeted toward neonates, as neonates have a diminished Th1 response to ligands targeting intracellular TLRs which are common targets for intracellular adjuvants. TLR activation mainly induces Th2/Th17 responses in neonates rather than Th1 responses. This technology engages specific signalling pathways that result in an immune response specifically designed to clear intracellular pathogens and thereby inducing a Th1 cell-mediated response.

A Th1 response leads mainly to cell-mediated immunity, which is vital in the fight against intracellular pathogens, such as invasive bacteria and viruses. These are the infections to which neonates and children are highly susceptible.

Further Details:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29980613/

Stage of Development

Proof of concept.

Benefits

Adjuvant specifically targeted towards neonatal and paediatric immune response, upregulating Th1 response.
Ability to improve vaccine efficacy and reduce the need for boosters thereby improving compliance.
Closes ‘window of vulnerability’ i.e. the time when infants’ maternal antibodies drop prior to infant immune system maturation thus preventing life-threatening disease in early life.

Applications

Neonatal and paediatric vaccine adjuvants.
Activation of the juvenile immune system as a potential therapy for intracellular pathogenic infection, cancer or allergy.

Opportunity

Seeking partnering or licensing to develop further.

Adjuvants for Paediatric Vaccines

Patents

IP Status

Seeking