NEWS – The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), in collaboration with RMRC-Bhubaneswar, NIMR, and DBT-NII, is developing a novel malaria vaccine candidate named AdFalciVax.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Target Parasite: Designed to combat Plasmodium falciparum, the most deadly malaria-causing parasite.
• Two-Stage Protection:
  • Targets both pre-erythrocytic (before red blood cell infection) and sexual stages (to block transmission).
  • Offers dual benefits: individual protection and reduced community transmission via mosquitoes.
• Production Method: Utilizes Lactococcus lactis, a safe, food-grade bacterium, to produce recombinant proteins.
• Advantages over Existing Vaccines:
  • Broader immune response with reduced chances of immune evasion.
  • Potential for long-term immunity.
  • Extended thermal stability – remains effective for over 9 months at room temperature.
• Technology Licensing: ICMR plans non-exclusive licensing to qualified organisations under its Intellectual Property Policy for further R&D and commercialisation.
• Current Status: Preclinical stage; not yet approved for clinical use.
• Significance:
  • Supports India’s malaria elimination goals.
  • Aligned with the Make in India initiative to promote indigenous innovation in healthcare.