A positive development in the immunisation space as American biotech company, Moderna is prepared to commence human trials for their new HIV vaccines.

The company will apply the same mRNA technology they successfully used against the COVID-19 virus, hoping to break new grounds fighting another deadly disease. This turning point has been described as a “potential first step forward” in protecting people from becoming infected with HIV. However, due to the elevated complexity of the HIV virus, scientists warn there is still a long way to go before mRNA technology can be used to provide long-lasting protection.

The aim of the Moderna mRNA vaccines is to prompt an immune response by introducing broadly neutralising antibodies. It is believed that multiple vaccines will be required to overcome key challenges and generate a sufficient response. Moderna is set to recruit 56 healthy people between the ages of 18 to 50 years of age to participate in their phase 1 trial which is anticipated to run until May 2023.

To read the article in full, please click on the link below:
Independent: ‘A potential first step forward’: Moderna to launch human trials for new HIV vaccines