UCL supports delivery of potential Covid-19 vaccine

Scientists at UCL's Vax-Hub have been working with Oxford University to provide the research base for a Covid-19 vaccine that is now being trialled at University College London Hospitals (UCLH) with support from UCL researchers. A team led by Professor Martina Micheletti (UCL Biochemical Engineering) collaborated with the Jenner Institute at Oxford on the adenovirus vector manufacturing platform that the Oxford team adapted and developed into a potential vaccine for Covid-19. The UCL and Oxford teams together form the Vax-Hub, a body funded by the Department of Health and Social Care and managed by EPSRC, which focuses on research and manufacturing insight into different vaccine technologies aimed at combatting infectious diseases in low and middle income countries. Screening for the 'phase III' trial of the vaccine began at the end of May, and researchers plan to begin vaccinations in 500 healthy UCLH staff volunteers in June. Scientists working within Vax-Hub are planning studies to further optimise the adenovirus platform, while reducing cost and complexity, ensuring it is suitable for manufacturers in low and middle income countries. Professor Micheletti said: "We are very pleased with the Vax-Hub's role in supporting the Jenner Institute and the Clinical Biomanufacturing Facility in Oxford during the initial phases of development of a potential vaccine for Covid -19. The Vax-Hub expertise and research in vaccine manufacturing insight is unique and we are committed to working with and supporting our partners around the world in addressing epidemic threats." Recruitment for the trial at UCLH will focus on healthcare workers who have had a higher chance of exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.