ITS develops new T cell vaccine to protect humans from seasonal and pandemic influenza A

Immune Targeting Systems (ITS), specializing in the development of novel T cell immune therapies, has been developing an exciting new T cell vaccine (Flunisyn^TM) designed to protect humans from all strains of seasonal and pandemic influenza A. To determine the effectiveness of Flunisyn^TM ITS produced its own live influenza challenge agent derived from the recently circulating Influenza A/California/2009 (H1N1) virus. This challenge virus, manufactured in compliance with the high level of quality and characterization required by the U.S. FDA and other Regulatory Agencies, has a much better infectivity profile than reported for similar challenge viruses. Whilst the main purpose in developing its own challenge virus was to advance the development of Flunisyn^TM and to further understand the natural course of influenza illness, ITS wants to make the virus available to enable and support the development of new antiviral drugs and vaccines.

Immune Targeting Systems announced today an asset purchase agreement with WCCT Global (WCCTG) for ITS' proprietary developed challenge strain. Through this partnership, WCCTG has become the only commercial company offering sponsors the ability to do large scale influenza challenge studies in the United States. The Experimental Human Viral Challenge Model has become widely accepted as an alternative to traditional early stage field trials to show the efficacy of antiviral and vaccine therapies. The WCCTG facility in Costa Mesa, California, has been completely reconfigured to provide private rooms, separate ventilation and other standard containment provisions to accommodate this valuable research model and ensure the safety and comfort of the volunteers and staff. 

Benjamin Chen, PhD, CEO of Immune Targeting Systems said, "We are very excited that WCCT Global has taken over the ownership of this important clinical research tool and are confident that they will use the virus to help support the development of new vaccines and antiviral drugs". Kenneth Kim, MD, CEO of WCCT Global said, " The capability to carry out the experimental influenza challenge model in conjunction with our deep-seated expertise in anti-viral drug development will surely be of great interest to our sponsors. This new capability combined with our Full Service Global capabilities, specialized influenza project teams, and deep scientific knowledge allows WCCTG to manage vaccine and antiviral development programs from First in Man through NDA submission."

More about Immune Targeting Systems

Immune targeting Systems, Ltd develops T-cell vaccines to highly mutated viruses and to cancers. The company's lead product Flunisyn™ vaccine has been shown in three clinical studies to stimulate the production of T-cells that recognise and destroy influenza-infected cells. Flunisyn™ is a pan-influenza A vaccine applicable to multiple influenza strains without the need to be re-manufactured for each influenza season or pandemic outbreak. The Company is also advancing the development of two other product candidates: a therapeutic Hepatitis B vaccine for chronic hepatitis B and a cancer vaccine for solid tumours. ITS is supported by Novartis Venture fund, Truffle Capital, HealthCap, Esperante Ventures and SME wholesale Finance.