Adeno-associated virus-like particles offer potential as prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines against cancer and infections, for example. The idea of using adeno-associated viruses (AAV) as a vaccine was developed in Medigene’s laboratories. The adeno-associated virus is non-pathogenic, i.e. it does not cause disease. The virus protein shell, the capsid, is suited for the production of so-called virus-like particles (VLP), which can be used as a basis for novel vaccines.

By inserting short antigenic peptides (B-cell epitopes) into the AAV capsid, a highly specific antibody reaction against selected target molecules can be induced. These antibodies can protect the body from disease (i.e. have a prophylactic effect) or act as a therapy against existing diseases.

Medigene is currently conducting research into the application of AAVLP technology for the treatment of cancer and viral infections, and is examining the possibility of using AAV libraries to systematically identify suitable vaccine candidates. The key benefit of this innovative technology is the possibility of transferring the mode of action of existing therapeutic antibodies directly into a vaccine.

In preclinical studies, AAVLP-based vaccines have shown promising data. This approach constitutes an interesting alternative to conventional vaccines and may also significantly widen the range of applications for vaccines against cancer and other diseases.

In May 2011, Medigene signed a development collaboration agreement with The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA. The objective of the collaboration is to test the first vaccine candidates of the AAVLP platform for the prevention of HPV-associated cancers and to further the development of the AAVLP project. The vaccine candidates examined target at a number of carcinogenic human papillomaviruses (HPV), which, for example, cause cervical cancer. The studies are being directed by Dr. Richard B. S. Roden, Professor of Gynecology/Obstetrics and Oncology at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, one of the leading scientists in the field of HPV research.

Outlook:

Medigene will conduct further preclinical studies on AAVLP technology. On the basis of these studies, Medigene will decide on the further development or strategic options for the AAVLP project.

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