Meiji Seika Pharma Approves Self-Amplifying mRNA Vaccine for Omicron Variant

By Philip Seaworth • Friday, August 29 15:39 • Permanent Link

Meiji Seika Pharma Co., Ltd. has announced the approval for a new presentation of KOSTAIVE®, a self-amplifying mRNA vaccine against COVID-19 in Japan. The vaccine will be supplied in vials containing two doses, targeting the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron sublineage JN.1 variant XEC. Non-clinical studies have shown that the vaccine induced neutralizing antibodies against Omicron JN.1, XEC, LP.8.1, and the currently circulating variants XFG and NB.1.8.1.

The new two-dose vial presentation is expected to be available for supply starting in late September 2025. This development reflects Meiji Seika Pharma's commitment to helping prevent COVID-19.

The self-amplifying mRNA vaccine differs from standard mRNA vaccines by instructing the body to produce more mRNA and spike protein, aiming to generate a more durable immune response.

This approval marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, as it provides an additional option in the vaccination arsenal against the evolving variants of the virus. Following these announcements, the company's shares moved -1.73%, and are now trading at a price of $17.00. Check out the company's full 8-K submission here.

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