Rhode Island Patent of the Month – March 2025
EpiVax, Inc. and Saint Louis University have been granted U.S. Patent No. 12,247,053, titled “Peptides for inducing heterosubtypic influenza T cell responses.” This patent introduces a novel approach to influenza vaccination by focusing on conserved T-cell epitopes, aiming to provide broad protection across multiple influenza strains.
Targeting Conserved T-Cell Epitopes for Broad Immunity
Traditional flu vaccines often target variable surface proteins of the virus, necessitating annual updates. In contrast, this new method identifies conserved T-cell epitopes within the influenza virus’s matrix and nucleoprotein components. These epitopes are designed to bind to HLA class I and II molecules, stimulating a robust T-cell mediated immune response. By focusing on these stable regions, the vaccine aims to offer cross-protection against diverse influenza subtypes.
Advancing Towards a Universal Influenza Vaccine
The development of a vaccine that elicits strong T-cell responses could revolutionize influenza prevention. Such a vaccine would reduce the reliance on yearly formulations and offer enhanced protection against emerging strains. EpiVax’s expertise in computational vaccinology, combined with Saint Louis University’s research capabilities, positions this innovation as a significant step toward a universal flu vaccine.
As influenza viruses continue to evolve, this patent represents a promising advancement in the pursuit of long-lasting and broad-spectrum influenza immunization strategies.
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