SK bioscience and MSD Collaborate on Zaire Ebolavirus Vaccine Development

SK bioscience has announced a significant advancement in the development of a vaccine for the Zaire ebolavirus, following a collaboration supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). This partnership emerges from a funding agreement between CEPI and the global pharmaceutical company MSD, which is set to receive up to USD 30 million to further develop the vaccine.

Funding and Development Goals

Under the terms of the agreement, CEPI will provide funding to MSD, which will then allocate resources to its development partners, including SK bioscience and Hilleman Laboratories. This joint venture between MSD and the health-focused Wellcome Foundation aims to enhance vaccine research, improve manufacturing processes, and support clinical development activities.

The collaboration is particularly focused on refining the existing manufacturing process of the Zaire ebolavirus vaccine, which is noted for its complexity and the necessity for ultra-low temperature storage. These stringent requirements create logistical hurdles, especially in remote regions where outbreaks commonly occur. By optimizing manufacturing yield and increasing the vaccine’s thermostability, the project seeks to ensure a more affordable, accessible, and sustainable supply of the vaccine, pending regulatory review.

Leadership and Commitment to Global Health

Hilleman Laboratories will spearhead the clinical development of the updated vaccine, while SK bioscience, in collaboration with IDT Biologika, will focus on developing the updated manufacturing processes for the drug substance and product. As a key partner in this CEPI-backed public health initiative, SK bioscience aims to leverage its extensive vaccine manufacturing expertise to improve affordability and accessibility in low- and middle-income countries.

The Zaire ebolavirus is notorious for causing sporadic outbreaks, with a survival rate of approximately 50%. Recent outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other regions have highlighted the persistent global threat posed by the virus, especially in areas with limited healthcare infrastructure.

Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI, remarked, “In a single decade, the world has transformed Ebola from a global emergency to a disease that can be stopped in its tracks. CEPI’s support will help enable a sustainable and accessible supply of MSD‘s Zaire ebolavirus vaccine for years to come at a more affordable price.” He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in bolstering global defenses against this deadly pathogen, ultimately aiming to save lives.

Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Addressing deadly infectious diseases such as Ebola requires strong global collaboration. Through this CEPI-supported partnership, SK bioscience will continue to play a critical role in improving Zaire ebolavirus vaccine manufacturing and supply, contributing meaningfully to global health preparedness.”

SK bioscience has established a robust record of collaboration with global health organizations, including CEPI, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). By harnessing its integrated capabilities across development, manufacturing, and supply, the company is committed to enhancing public health initiatives and ensuring high-quality vaccines reach those in need.

As the world grapples with the challenge of infectious diseases, the collaborative efforts between SK bioscience, MSD, and Hilleman Laboratories stand as a testament to the power of partnership in addressing global health crises.