ILiAD Biotechnologies announced in June 2024 that Emmes Group has been chosen to conduct Phase III studies of its lead pertussis vaccine candidate, BPZE1. The organisations are finalising the definitive agreement, but ILiAD stated that Emmes Group was selected “for their expertise in vaccine development, agility in managing complex clinical trials, strong local market presence, and their integrated technology capabilities”. The VaxTrials unit previously demonstrated “proficiency and clinical trial excellence” in supporting ILiAD’s Phase II IB-201P BPZE1 study.
BPZE1
ILiAD states that “there is a critical need for a new and more effective pertussis vaccine”. Although there are antibiotics, the window of effectiveness after infection is limited. ILiAD’s lead product candidate is BPZE1, a live attenuated pertussis vaccine based on a strain developed at the Institut Pasteur de Lille and Inserm. It is a “technologically advanced” pertusiss vaccine containing genetic modifications to “eliminate, attenuate, or inactivate” three B. pertussis toxins.
A carefully considered decision
Dr Keith Rubin, Chief Executive Officer of ILiAD Biotechnologies, commented that the selection of Emmes Group for the upcoming trials was a “carefully considered strategic decision to ensure the highest standards of clinical research”.
“VaxTrials’ specialisation in vaccines and Veridix AI’s advanced technological capabilities will be instrumental in executing our BPZE1 vaccine clinical development plan.”
Sastry Chilukuri, Chief Executive Officer of Emmes Group, is “honoured and pleased” that ILiAD has selected Emmes Group as partner in the continued clinical development of BPZE1.
“We look forward to working closely with ILiAD’s clinical development team on this promising new vaccine, which could significantly reduce the transmissibility and incidence of B. pertussis, particularly in vulnerable populations.”
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