The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced over $500 million in funding for the development of next-generation COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics through Project NextGen. The project aims to advance the development of innovative vaccine and therapeutic technologies to combat the ongoing pandemic and prepare for future outbreaks.
According to a press release from the HHS, the funding will be used to initiate Phase 2b clinical trials and support the development of new vaccine candidates. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra highlighted the Biden-Harris administration's commitment to enhancing the country's capabilities against new COVID-19 variants. This funding is in addition to the $1.4 billion allocated in August.
Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response Dawn O'Connell stated that the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) will be investing in technologies such as intranasal vaccines and self-amplifying mRNA. These technologies have the potential to elicit stronger, broader, or longer-lasting immune responses against the virus.
The HHS press release also listed the awardees for vaccine development. CastleVax received $8.5 million for a vector-based intranasal vaccine, Codagenix was awarded $10 million for a live-attenuated intranasal vaccine, and Gritstone Bio received $10 million for the development of a self-amplifying mRNA vaccine.
BARDA is committing over $240 million for infrastructure to support these clinical trials, including cold-chain sample management, genomic sequencing, and centralized laboratory capacity. Furthermore, $241 million has been earmarked for new technological developments, with recipients including Vir Biotechnology and Luminary Labs.
These investments are not only focused on addressing the immediate needs of the ongoing pandemic but also aimed at preparing the nation for future COVID-19 outbreaks. The HHS press release emphasized the importance of combining the expertise in research and development at HHS with the lessons learned throughout the COVID-19 pandemic to accelerate the development of next-generation vaccines and therapeutics.
Overall, the funding provided through Project NextGen will play a crucial role in advancing the development of next-generation COVID-19 vaccines and therapeutics, enhancing the country's preparedness against the virus, and ensuring the nation's ability to respond effectively to future outbreaks.
