SpyBiotech will utilize biochemical "superglue" to aid the rapid development of robust and novel vaccines. The company derived their name from "Streptococcus pyogenes" (Spy), the causative agent of a number of infections.
According to Phys Org, the team of researchers from SpyBiotech divided the Spy into a SpyTag (peptide) and SpyCatcher (protein partner). The two divisions of the Spy are naturally attracted to each other forming a covalent bond hence the term biochemical "superglue".
SpyBiotech believes that the covalent bond created by SpyTag and SpyCatcher is needed in the effective development and production of highly effective vaccines. The biochemical "superglue" will target virus-like particles (VLPs), which is a leading technology in activating immune responses by vaccination. VLPs resemble viruses but do not cause any infections; instead, it is created with bug-busting antigens.
Currently, the coating of VLPs with antigens is not accurate and also expensive leading to a misassembled biological formulation. This disadvantage may result in the failure of the vaccine. Biochemical "superglue" clears out this disadvantage as the SpyBiotech's SpyVLP can be easily and efficiently combined with a number of antigens producing stable vaccines inducing robust antibody responses.
The company has raised £4m to develop the biochemical "superglue" ready for the series of clinical trials. As reported by World Health Organization (WHO), the development of new vaccines can protect more children against deadly and debilitating diseases. New vaccines that will be approved for marketing may be required to undergo additional studies evaluating its safety, effectiveness and possible side effects.
During the period of clinical trials SpyBiotech's biochemical "superglue" will receive support from investors. This current discovery will truly be a game-changer in the fast development of effective vaccines against major global diseases, as stated by Sumi Biswas, Associate Professor at the Jenner Institute of Oxford University. He also added that beginning the journey in producing the innovative and versatile vaccine approach is very exciting.
According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, vaccines have reduced preventable infectious diseases and thus, development of latest formulations can be a very great advancement to medicine. The biochemical "superglue" has the ability to provide a more accurate and precise vaccine formulations to prevent diverse infections.