Mimicking the structure of viruses to empower a better immune response

Taking a proven approach to the next level

At the center of our novel approach to vaccines is breakthrough virus-like particle (VLP) technology. Born out of a collaboration between the Gates Foundation and the University of Washington’s Institute for Protein Design, this technology enables high-density, multivalent display of antigens in a manner that closely resembles the structure of a virus. This is believed to induce a stronger and more durable immune response vs. traditional soluble antigens. Initial validation for our approach has come via positive Phase 1/1b topline data for our VLP-based vaccine candidate targeting RSV and positive Phase 1 topline data for our bivalent candidate targeting RSV and hMPV.

Unlike soluble antigens, VLPs mimic the structure of real viruses

Natural virus

Soluble antigen

Traditionally manufactured or mRNA-derived

VLP-based antigen

Because the body “sees” VLPs as viruses,
the result may be a stronger, more durable immune response
Soluble antigen
(traditionally manufactured or mRNA-derived)

Weaker activation signals and lower levels of
antibodies lead to a weaker immune response.

VLP-based antigen

Multivalent antigen display enables cross-linking of
B-cell receptors in the lymph nodes, potentially
leading to a stronger, more durable immune response.

Adapted from B. Graham, NIH, ResViNet 2017 presentation.

Multiple mechanisms may underpin the anticipated robust immune response to VLPs

Adapted from Gomes AC, Mohsen M, Bachmann MF. Vaccines. 2017;5(1):6.

How VLPs are made

VLPs are a proven technology with multiple products on the market, including vaccines for HPV and HBV. While currently available vaccines utilize the few proteins that naturally fold into VLPs, we’re building on that success with intentionally designed VLPs.

Our VLPs are produced via a proprietary, 2-component, computationally-
designed system

Potential benefits of VLPs

When compared to existing modalities, we believe our VLP technology has the potential to improve upon:

Magnitude of response

To counter immunosenescence that can occur in older adults

Breadth of coverage

Greater degree of protection against related viral strains and mutations; less customization for variants

Durability

Longer antibody persistence and requiring fewer boosters

Tolerability/reactogenicity

Lower incidence of side effects and greater acceptability

Manufacturing

High productivity and scalability with process efficiencies, storage flexibility, and stability

Combinability

Ability to combine multiple VLPs into one vaccine