Novo Nordisk Foundation, the entity that controls Denmark-based Novo Nordisk (CPH: NOVO-B), has unveiled an ambitious new initiative to bolster immunizations against respiratory diseases with a DKK 1.8 billion (USD 260 million) investment. This project, named the Novo Nordisk Foundation Initiative for Vaccines and Immunity (NIVI), aims to develop or enhance vaccines that stimulate robust local immunity in the airways, thereby blocking infections, curbing the spread of airborne diseases, and fostering long-term immunity, with an initial focus on tuberculosis (TB), influenza, and group A Streptococcus (GAS).
NIVI is designed to maximize the likelihood of success by concurrently exploring various vaccine antigens, platforms, and delivery methods, such as intramuscular injections and nasal sprays. The initiative is poised to deepen the understanding of both systemic and airway immunity and, if successful, could play a pivotal role in curbing the proliferation of antimicrobial resistance and countering current and future airborne health threats.
The project will be executed through the Novo Nordisk Foundation Vaccine Accelerator (NVAC), a commercial entity responsible for licensing and developing vaccine technologies, as well as coordinating external production and clinical testing of vaccine candidates through Phase II.- Fineline.com
