SK bioscience, MSD, and Hilleman Laboratories Enhance Ebola Vaccine Development

SK bioscience has announced a significant advancement in the development of a vaccine for the Zaire ebolavirus, bolstered by funding from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). This initiative follows a recent funding agreement between CEPI and global pharmaceutical company MSD, which will allocate up to USD 30 million to support the ongoing development of the vaccine.

The funding will be directed towards key development partners, including SK bioscience and Hilleman Laboratories, a joint venture between MSD and Wellcome, a health research charity. The collaboration aims to enhance the existing vaccine’s manufacturing process, which currently faces challenges due to its complexity and the requirement for ultra-low temperature storage. These factors complicate logistics, particularly in remote areas prone to Zaire ebolavirus outbreaks.

Collaboration to Improve Vaccine Accessibility

By focusing on improving manufacturing yield and increasing the vaccine’s thermostability, the partnership seeks to create a more affordable and sustainable supply of the vaccine. This effort is crucial for ensuring accessibility in low-resource settings, which are often affected by Ebola outbreaks. Hilleman Laboratories will spearhead the clinical development of the updated vaccine, while SK bioscience, in collaboration with IDT Biologika, will refine the drug substance manufacturing process and the associated drug product.

As a key partner in this CEPI-backed public health initiative, SK bioscience will utilize its expertise in vaccine manufacturing. The company aims to enhance vaccine affordability and accessibility, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The Zaire ebolavirus has been responsible for numerous unpredictable outbreaks, with a survival rate of around 50%. Recent cases in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other regions highlight the ongoing global risk posed by the virus, especially in areas with limited healthcare resources.

Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI, commented on the 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 help enable a sustainable and accessible supply of MSD’s Zaire ebolavirus vaccine for years to come at a more affordable price.”

Commitment to Global Health Preparedness

Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience, emphasized the importance of global cooperation in addressing 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.”

SK bioscience has a strong history of collaboration with various global health organizations, including CEPI, the Gates Foundation, and the International Vaccine Institute. By leveraging its capabilities in vaccine development, manufacturing, and supply, the company is expanding its role as a significant partner in public health initiatives.

Founded with the goal of making vaccines more equitable, SK bioscience is committed to advancing health solutions worldwide. The organization collaborates closely with governments, regulatory bodies, healthcare providers, and medical experts to ensure that high-quality vaccines reach those in need.