• The NIH has initiated a Phase 1 clinical trial for MPV/S-2P, a novel nasal COVID-19 vaccine, across three U.S. sites, aiming for improved protection against emerging variants.
• MPV/S-2P utilizes a live-weakened murine pneumonia virus (MPV) to deliver a stabilized spike protein, potentially inducing a more robust mucosal immune response in the respiratory tract.
• The trial will involve 60 healthy adults who have already received at least three mRNA COVID-19 vaccine doses, evaluating the vaccine's safety and immune response at varying dosages.
• Researchers suggest nasal vaccines could offer advantages over traditional injections, including enhanced acceptance, easier storage, and potentially superior protection against the virus.