University of Oxford and Serum Institute of India have signed a licensing agreement to strengthen the global fight against malaria

University of Oxford and Serum Institute of India have signed a licensing agreement to strengthen the global fight against malaria

¨     University of Oxford and Serum Institute of India (SII) have signed a licensing agreement to strengthen the global fight against malaria.

¨     Under this agreement, they will jointly develop and manufacture the next-generation malaria vaccine, R78C.

¨     The vaccine targets Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for the most severe and deadly form of malaria.

¨     It is expected to provide stronger and longer-lasting protection.

Key features of R78C vaccine

¨     Targets multiple stages of the malaria parasite’s life cycle

¨     Based on two blood-stage antigens: RIPR and CyPRA

¨     Helps reduce severity of infection

¨     Limits the spread of the disease

¨     Enhances immune response

¨     It represents a significant scientific advancement in malaria vaccine research.

Importance of the partnership

¨     Serum Institute of India is the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer

¨     Enables large-scale production and global distribution

¨     Can be made available at low cost, especially in low-income countries

¨  The collaboration builds on previous efforts, including the World Health Organization-recommended R21/Matrix-M malaria vaccine.