In December 2023 AstraZeneca announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Icosavax, the US-based clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company that focuses on developing vaccines with an innovative, protein virus-like particle (VLP) platform. The acquisition would allow AstraZeneca to “build on” expertise in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Tackling RSV and hMPV
AstraZeneca reports that the acquisition will strengthen its Vaccines & Immune Therapies late-stage pipeline with Icosavax’s lead investigational vaccine candidate IVX-A12. This is a “potential first-in-class combination vaccine” that contains VLPs that incorporate stabilised prefusion F proteins from RSV and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) viruses. It was granted Fast Track Designation in adults over the age of 60 by the FDA.
RSV and hMPV are two leading causes of severe respiratory infection and hospitalisation in adults aged 60 and older and those with chronic conditions. There are no treatments of preventative therapies for hMPV and no combination vaccines for RSV.
IVX-A12 is the “most advanced” investigational vaccine targeting both RSV and hMPV, with a differentiated profile compared to currently approved RSV vaccines. Phase II data show that it elicits robust immune responses. Furthermore, because VLP vaccines mimic the appearance of naturally occurring viruses, they can offer potential benefits such as stronger immune responses, broader protection, and greater durability.
High unmet needs
Iskra Reic is AstraZeneca’s Executive Vice President, Vaccines & Immune Therapies, and believes the technology has the potential to “transform prevention” of “severed infectious diseases”. Incorporating the “Phase III-ready lead asset” to the late-stage pipeline will bring both the differentiated, advanced investigational vaccine and the “platform for further development”.
“This aligns with our strategy to deliver a portfolio of therapies to address high unmet needs in infectioys diseases, and our ambition to protect the most vulnerable patients who have high risk of severe outcomes.”
CEO at Icosavax, Adam Simpson, is pleased at the opportunity to “accelerate, and expand access to” the potential first-in-class vaccine.
“We look forward to combining our skills and expertise in advancing the development of IVX-A12 with AstraZeneca’s decades of experience in RSV, resources, and capabilities.”
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