The mystery of how long the COVID-19 pandemic will last remains unresolved. The world continues to report increased deaths and the rapid spread of the virus. However, hundreds of pharmaceutical companies have responded to the need for an emergency solution. With so many trial vaccines under development, PDS Biotechnology Corp (NASDAQ: PDSB) Corporation has presented preclinical data for its COVID-19 vaccine candidate, Versamune-CoV-2 (PDS0203).
The company says that the data confirms potential suitability of PDS0203 and that it produces induction of extremely active and potent virus recognized by CD8 killer and CD4 helper T-cells. There were also indicators of a long-lasting virus-specific memory T-cells from the study and which are reportedly longer-term protection.
The development of vaccines targeting CD8 and CD4 T-cells
According to the preclinical data, there was a 30-45 fold increase in COVID-19 specific T-cells from PDS0203. This happened by day 14 and was being equated to the vaccine without Versamune®. It also demonstrated a strong induction of neutralizing anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies.
Commenting on the encouraging PDS0203 preclinical data, the CEO of PDS Biotech, Dr. Frank Bedu-Addo, said, ”Our preclinical data shows PDS0203’s ability to rapidly induce both protective antibodies and long-lasting T-cells specific for COVID-19… it may present unique potential to provide the breadth and level of immune responses necessary…”
Multiple therapies based on combinations of Versamune® from PDS Biotech
Versamune® technology uses patented immune-activating lipids. More often than not, they activate the Type 1 interferon signaling pathway. This commonly applies to the induction of both anti-viral and anti-tumor immune responses. The platform also delivers effectively disease-specific antigens for in vivo uptake and processing.
Over the years, PDS Biotech has relied on the combinations the technology accommodates to develop multiple therapies and disease-specific antigens, which can recognize and attack disease cells.
Meanwhile, the company has partnered with Farmacore Biotechnology, a Brazillian firm. Bedu-Addo says that the partnership will hasten the development of Versamune-CoV-2FC in Brazil. This will bring forth a quick and continued assessment of the efficacy of Versamune-CoV-2FC. The duo will receive financial support from the Brazilian Ministry of Science, Technology, Innovation, and Communication (MCTIC) to accelerate operations.
