Accelerating Next-Generation Vaccine Development to Combat the Global Mpox Crisis

The COVID-19 pandemic and Mpox epidemics have underscored the need for innovative vaccines to enhance public health responses. The currently approved Mpox vaccine in Canada, JYNNEOS (aka Imvamune), is a live attenuated virus vaccine based on a modified Vaccinia virus. While generally safe, JYNNEOS can cause adverse effects such as myocarditis and complications in individuals with skin disorders. The estimated rate of protection against clade IIb provided by existing vaccines is between 60 and 70%, which might be insufficient to prevent spread, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. Therefore, we are developing and alternative, the first made-in-Canada recombinant Mpox vaccine designed to offer superior safety and immune protection. Our approach utilizes the Gemini platform, a cutting-edge nucleic acid vector, superior to existing mRNA strategies. Gemini is not a virus, reducing potential risks and enabling rapid, cost-effective manufacturing. Our vaccine further uses information from the Jennerator, which is a revolutionary computer-aided design tool that accurately vaccine payloads. Importantly, our vaccine does not require lipid nanoparticles, which enhances its manufacturability and affordability. To ensure the efficacy and safety of our vaccine, we will conduct head-to-head trials comparing our vaccine directly with JYNNEOS, to provide critical data on relative safety, immune response, and effectiveness. Through our partnership with Eyam Vaccines and Immunotherapeutics, who have licensed the technology from the University of British Columbia, we have a robust plan to accelerate the vaccine's journey from development to clinical trials and eventual commercialization. This proposal aims to advance and validate our innovative vaccine platforms, addressing the urgent need for effective Mpox vaccines and enhancing Canada's preparedness for future pandemics.