Indigenous Omicron-Specific Booster Vaccine Approved! 🚀💉
In a major advancement in India’s fight against COVID-19, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has authorized the Emergency Use of an Omicron-targeted mRNA-based Booster vaccine. This revolutionary vaccine has been created utilizing domestic platform technology by Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd., with the invaluable assistance of DBT and the Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC).
Named GEMCOVAC®-OM, this booster vaccine utilizes a stable mRNA platform, similar to the prototype vaccine developed against the Wuhan strain. However, what sets it apart is its ability to generate a robust immune response specifically targeting the Omicron variant. This is a critical step in tackling the evolving nature of the virus and safeguarding public health.
One remarkable feature of GEMCOVAC®-OM is its thermostable nature, which means it does not require ultra-cold chain infrastructure for storage and distribution. Unlike some other mRNA-based vaccines, GEMCOVAC®-OM can be stored and transported at temperatures ranging from 2 to 8°C, leveraging existing infrastructure and making it easily deployable across the country.
During the clinical trials conducted as a booster shot, GEMCOVAC®-OM demonstrated significantly higher immune responses when administered intradermally using a needle-free injection device. This highlights the importance of developing variant-specific vaccines to ensure the
desired level of immune protection.
Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister (IC) of the Ministry of Science and Technology, conveyed his immense pride in the accomplishment of the Department of Biotechnology (DBT). He commended DBT’s mission of fostering technology-driven entrepreneurship and the creation of an indigenous mRNA-platform technology. This achievement aligns perfectly with the vision of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) advocated by the Prime Minister. Dr. Singh further emphasized that the vaccine’s transportation and storage requirements align with the existing established supply chain infrastructure, eliminating the need for ultra-low temperature conditions.
Dr. Sanjay Singh, CEO of Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd., conveyed his appreciation for the government’s confidence in their expertise to create an mRNA technology platform. He stated that GEMCOVAC®-OM receiving EUA from the office of the Drug Control General of India (DCGI) is a testament to their unwavering efforts and dedication to creating a ‘pandemic ready’ technology. This achievement not only marks the successful development of the nation’s first mRNA vaccine but also showcases the versatility of the platform to address other diseases in a relatively short developmental timeline.
This remarkable milestone demonstrates India’s commitment to advancing healthcare through technology-driven innovation. It is a testament to the collaborative efforts of DBT, BIRAC, and Gennova in leveraging cutting-edge science to protect public health and contribute to global efforts in combating COVID-19.
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- Source: https://www.biotecnika.org/2023/06/indigenous-omicron-specific-booster-vaccine-approved/
