By Fineline Cube 
UK-based GSK plc (NYSE: GSK) announced a licensing agreement with Bharat Biotech International Limited, an Indian multinational biotech company. This agreement permits Bharat Biotech to continue developing and potentially distributing its Shigella vaccine candidate, altSonflex1-2-3, in low- and middle-income countries. This collaboration addresses the significant health burden of Shigella, a leading bacterial cause of diarrhea, particularly threatening children under five in these regions.
Vaccine Technology
The vaccine leverages innovative GMMA technology (Generalized Modules for Membrane Antigens), utilizing naturally released outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from bacteria. These OMVs deliver antigens that activate the immune system, typically without the need for adjuvants. This technology offers a flexible approach to combatting multiple bacterial diseases, including Shigella.
Clinical Trial Results
Phase I clinical trials and interim analyses from Phase II studies have demonstrated promising results. The vaccine has met predefined immunogenicity success criteria, indicating its potential to provide effective protection against Shigella infections.-Fineline Info & Tech