CSL and UQ to develop Covid vaccine

Biotechnology giant CSL has joined with the University of Queensland to develop and manufacture a Covid-19 vaccine candidate.

CSL has been appointed ‘trusted manufacturer’ for UQ’s molecular clamp technology with the two sharing development and manufacturing costs.

The company said: “A vaccine is anticipated to be available in 2021 if clinical trials are successful.”

The UQ technology speeds the design and production of vaccines targeting vital pathogens.

Earlier this week the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison announced the technology would share $66 million in new funding to find a vaccine and treatments for COVID-19, as well as better preparing for future pandemics.

The technology targets proteins on the surface of viruses that help them fuse with target cells in the body, spreading infection.

CSL and the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations have been supporting the UQ work, with the agreement formalising their continuing support.

Early results from the research have shown the UQ virus candidate produced a high level of antibodies that can neutralise the virus.

Picture: University of Queensland

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