The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in partnership with the Department of Biotechnology-National Institute of Immunology (DBT-NII), is developing AdFalciVax, a novel recombinant chimeric malaria vaccine candidate that represents a significant advancement in malaria prevention strategy. The vaccine is being developed through ICMR's Regional Medical Research Centre, Bhubaneswar (RMRCBB) and National Institute of Malaria Research (NIMR).
Innovative Multi-Stage Approach
AdFalciVax stands as the first indigenous recombinant chimeric malaria vaccine specifically designed to target two critical stages of Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for the most lethal form of malaria. This dual-targeting approach distinguishes it from existing single-stage vaccines and aims to provide protection against human infection while simultaneously reducing vector-borne community transmission of the parasite.
The vaccine is produced in Lactococcus lactis and consists of a stable and functional recombinant chimaera between antigenic components that promises dual protection. This design represents one of the most advanced malaria vaccine candidates globally, with a rational approach targeting two key stages of the parasite lifecycle.
Preclinical Success and Advantages
According to the development team, AdFalciVax has demonstrated excellent efficacy in the preclinical stage of development. Preclinical data suggest that the vaccine may offer several advantages over existing single-stage vaccines, including broader protection by targeting two vulnerable parasite stages and a lower risk of immune evasion.
The vaccine also shows potential for better long-term immunity and demonstrates extended thermal stability with functionality maintained for over nine months at room temperature. This thermal stability characteristic could prove particularly valuable for deployment in regions with limited cold-chain infrastructure.
Commercialization and Licensing Strategy
ICMR intends to license the technology for AdFalciVax to eligible organizations and manufacturers for further development, manufacture, and commercialization under non-exclusive agreements. This approach aims to enable wider outreach and maximize public health benefits while adhering to ICMR's Intellectual Property Policy.
As an indigenously developed vaccine candidate fulfilling the Make in India mandate, AdFalciVax holds the potential to contribute substantially toward malaria eradication by preventing infection and minimizing community transmission.
Current Development Status
The vaccine candidate is currently in its early research and development phases and is not yet available for any clinical use or commercialization. The development represents a significant step forward in India's efforts to address malaria through indigenous biotechnology solutions, with the potential to impact both individual protection and community-wide transmission reduction.
