New mRNA Vaccine Project to Enhance H5N1 Preparedness in Poor Countries

Launched in July 2021, the mRNA Technology Transfer Programme was designed to build capacity in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) for the development and production of mRNA-based vaccines.

A groundbreaking project aimed at accelerating the development and accessibility of human avian influenza (H5N1) mRNA vaccine candidates in low- and middle-income countries has been launched today. Led by Argentinian manufacturer Sinergium Biotech, the initiative will utilize the World Health Organization (WHO) and Medicines Patent Pool (MPP) mRNA Technology Transfer Programme.

Launched in July 2021, the mRNA Technology Transfer Programme was designed to build capacity in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) for the development and production of mRNA-based vaccines. Sinergium Biotech, a partner in this programme, has developed candidate H5N1 vaccines and aims to establish proof-of-concept through preclinical models. Upon completion of preclinical trials, the technology, materials, and expertise will be shared with other manufacturing partners, expediting the development of H5N1 vaccine candidates and enhancing pandemic preparedness.

Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, commented: “This initiative exemplifies why WHO established the mRNA Technology Transfer Programme – to foster greater research, development, and production in low- and middle-income countries. This will ensure that the world is better prepared for future pandemics with a more effective and equitable response.”

Charles Gore, Executive Director of MPP, emphasized the goals of the programme: “When we created the mRNA Technology Transfer Programme with WHO, our aim was to enable LMICs to lead development efforts, foster collaboration, and disseminate knowledge. This project embodies our vision and demonstrates a strong commitment to future pandemic preparedness and response.”

Avian influenza viruses pose significant public health risks due to their prevalence in animals and potential for causing a future pandemic. This project complements ongoing efforts under the Pandemic Influenza Preparedness Framework, which aims to improve the sharing of influenza viruses with pandemic potential and enhance vaccine access in LMICs.

Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of the Pan American Health Organization, noted: “This announcement highlights the importance of diversifying the innovation and production of health technologies and recognizing capacities in Latin America and the Caribbean. It underscores the need for early planning and knowledge sharing during research and development processes.”

Dr. Alejandro Gil, Chief Executive Officer of Sinergium, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “Sinergium’s enhanced capacity to address H5N1 will be crucial for global pandemic preparedness. We appreciate PAHO’s support for regional manufacturers in the Americas and are eager to address this public health challenge.”

Since its inception, the mRNA Technology Transfer Programme has developed a platform for establishing the immunogenicity, efficacy, and safety of COVID-19 vaccine candidates in preclinical models. Afrigen, the centre where the platform was created and validated, is now transferring this technology to other manufacturing partners to adapt it for additional critical disease targets. This progress is vital for improving the availability, access, and use of mRNA vaccines globally, enhancing vaccine equity worldwide.  4o mini