Pune-based Pharma develops vaccine for Delta and Omicron variants

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PUNE: Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd, a Pune-based Pharmaceutical business, has almost finished phase 3 trials of their COVID-19 messenger or mRNA vaccine, and is now working on an Omicron-specific vaccine utilising the same technology. According to Times of India, Gennova has created an mRNA vaccine for the Omicron variant that will be investigated for safety and efficacy before being used in humans.

The injection of a small portion of the virus’s genetic code (RNA) to boost the recipient’s immune response is known as messenger RNA or mRNA technology. It provides instructions for human cells to produce proteins that resemble a component of the new novel coronavirus, causing the immune system to react. Vaccines do not contain any genuine virus. Dr Gagandeep Kang, Biomedical Scientist, recommended mRNA vaccinations as the best option for booster doses. Gennova has developed a mRNA vaccine candidate (HGCO19) in conjunction with HDT Biotech Corporation in the United States, with established safety, immunogenicity, and neutralisation antibody activity in rodent and non-human primate models, according to a government official.

According to a report, Gennova is near to finishing phase 3 trials of its Delta variant-based two-dose mRNA after submitting phase 2 trial results from over 3000 individuals. According to the article, India’s medicines authority is likely to analyse the data this week and make a judgement on licensing.