SK_bioscience licenses CDC rotavirus vaccine

Altor BioScience>>>, a global vaccine and biotech company, has entered into a license agreement with the United States — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention>>> (CDC) to develop an injectable rotavirus vaccine candidate. This marks the first time a Korean company has received vaccine technology from the CDC. The CDC previously developed the technology and sponsored a Phase I clinical trial. Altor BioScience>>> plans to establish a production process to enhance vaccine efficacy and reduce costs, then advance through clinical development and commercialization. The project is supported by a research and development funding agreement with the Research Investment for Global Health Technology Foundation>>>, a non-profit international public-private partnership in South Korea>>> established with partners including the Government of South Korea>>> and the Gates Foundation>>>. Rotavirus is a leading cause of severe diarrhea in children under five, with oral vaccines showing reduced effectiveness in low- and middle-income countries, where 99% of rotavirus-related deaths occur. Injectable vaccines are expected to offer stronger protection in these regions. The global rotavirus vaccine market is projected to grow significantly, with organizations like UNICEF>>> and GAVI>>> indicating high demand.