Development of a therapeutic vaccine against genital herpes simplex virus 2 infection

Important results from the project

The aim is to develop a vaccine against herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection. HSV-2 infection is common and approximately 15% of the adult population in Sweden is infected. We use a new strategy for developing a vaccine and suggest it should be based on the HSV-2 specific glycoprotein G-2 (gG-2). We have evaluated a number of gG-2 variants, produced in various recombinant systems, and now defined a vaccine candidate. This vaccine induces complete protection from disease after genital HSV-2 infection in mice. We now intend to conduct clinical Phase I / II studies on humans.

Expected long term effects

In the project we have performed four preclinical activities necessary for the development of the vaccine, i) Optimized two adjuvant that present excellent effects with our vaccine antigen ii) Completed vaccine studies in mice and guinea pigs where the vaccine antigen together with adjuvant provides appropriate immunological responses iii) Defined a production process of the vaccine and prepared protocols for the toxicity and safety trials, iiii) We have also submitted a PCT patent application to protect our invention.

Approach and implementation

We have previously identified from our research at the University of Gothenburg an HSV-2 protein that is well suited to use as a vaccine against HSV-2 infection. To continue the vaccine project, we are now collaborating with Vaxine Pty. Ltd. Which has developed new adjuvant in humans. Animal studies in guinea pigs have been carried out in collaboration with NIH in the United States. We are now in the final phase of preclinical development and have good opportunities to develop a vaccine that can benefit millions of people worldwide. The project has also a large commercial value.