SK bioscience, MSD, and Hilleman Laboratories Enhance Ebola Vaccine with CEPI Support

SK bioscience has announced a significant advancement in the development of a vaccine for the Zaire ebolavirus, following a new collaboration backed by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). The partnership comes with a funding agreement in which CEPI will provide up to USD 30 million to support continued vaccine development, with MSD acting as the primary recipient of these funds.

MSD will allocate the funding to its development partners, including SK bioscience and Hilleman Laboratories, a joint venture between MSD and the Wellcome Trust, a global health research foundation. This collaboration aims to enhance critical research, improve manufacturing processes, and advance clinical development activities for the Zaire ebolavirus vaccine.

Addressing Logistical Challenges

This initiative builds on MSD’s existing Zaire ebolavirus vaccine, which is prequalified by the World Health Organization. The focus of the collaboration includes upgrading the complex manufacturing process, which currently necessitates ultra-low temperature storage. Such stringent requirements present logistical difficulties in the remote and resource-limited settings where Ebola outbreaks frequently occur.

By enhancing manufacturing yield and improving the vaccine’s thermostability, the project aims to facilitate a more affordable, accessible, and sustainable supply of the vaccine, contingent upon regulatory review and public health requirements. Hilleman Laboratories will spearhead the clinical development of the updated vaccine, while SK bioscience, in conjunction with IDT Biologika, will focus on developing the updated drug substance manufacturing process and related products.

Global Health Preparedness

As a key player in this CEPI-supported initiative, SK bioscience intends to leverage its extensive vaccine manufacturing expertise and infrastructure. The company’s efforts are directed towards enhancing vaccine affordability and accessibility, particularly in low- and middle-income countries that often face the brunt of Ebola outbreaks.

The Zaire ebolavirus is known for causing unpredictable outbreaks, with a survival rate of approximately 50%. Recent incidents in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other regions highlight the ongoing global threat posed by this virus, especially in areas lacking adequate healthcare access and logistical infrastructure.

Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI, emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “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 enable a sustainable and accessible supply of MSD’s Zaire ebolavirus vaccine for years to come at a more affordable price.” He noted the collaboration as a significant step in reinforcing global defenses against one of humanity’s deadliest pathogens.

Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience, underscored the necessity of international collaboration in tackling infectious diseases like Ebola. He remarked, “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.”

With a proven track record of working with global health organizations such as CEPI, the Gates Foundation, and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI), SK bioscience is dedicated to enhancing its role as a global partner in vaccine initiatives. The company strives to provide high-quality vaccines and better public health solutions worldwide.

As the world continues to confront the challenges posed by infectious diseases, the collaboration between SK bioscience, MSD, and Hilleman Laboratories represents a proactive approach to ensuring that effective vaccines are available where they are needed most.