Fingers crossed! Australian scientists one step closer to find a vaccine for coronavirus
While the scientists across the world are searching for vaccine against the novel coronavirus, the scientists at the University of Queensland (UQ) are step closer to find the cure for pandemic. As per the report, Queensland researchers have joined hands with the pharmaceutical giant CSL to find out the effective vaccine. Reportedly, the scientists are eyeing to make up to 100 million doses of the cure by the end of the year.
The deal between the Queensland researchers, CSL and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) comes after the UQ vaccine developed good results in the laboratory tests. In an early pre-clinical trials, the UQ experimental COVID-19 vaccine produced high levels of antibodies that are said to be potential neutralise the novel coronavirus.
In a release by the UQ, it was stated that human trials (phase 1 safety trials) of the vaccine is set to begin in July in Brisbane. It also stated that if clinical trials are successful, the UQ vaccine is expected to be available in 2021. As per the deal, CSL and CEPI will fund the human trials of the UQ’s vaccine candidate. It is expected to accelerate the development, manufacture and distribution of a vaccine against nCov.
CEPI Chair Jane Halton stated that the development is an important step in a battle against the coronavirus pandemic. If the vaccine is successful, it will enable CEPI to provide a significant number of doses to the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access Facility for those who need them most, Halton added.
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Reportedly, the UQ-developed vaccine is different from the other candidates as the researchers are using the ‘molecular clamp’ technology developed by the Professor Paul Young, Associate Professor Keith Chappell and Dr Dan Watterson.
-PTC News
