Open Orphan PLC (AIM:ORPH, FRA:CRO) (LON:ORPH) said its hVIVO operation has successfully developed a malaria challenge model that will be used to help develop the next generation of drugs and vaccines from November.
Its scientists will deploy a P. falciparum sporozoite (PfSPZ) challenge agent that has been used in “multiple” clinical trials in the UK, US, Europe, Indonesia and Africa.
Malaria is a disease of huge unmet need with 229mln cases and 409,000 deaths in 2019.
“Its prevention and cure are a designated World Health Organisation target,” said Open Orphan chairman, Cathal Friel.
“We are pleased to have formally announced today the latest addition to our portfolio of human challenge models namely the malaria human challenge study model.
“The safety profile of PfSPZ is impressive, and we are optimistic that it will enable us to assist in the advancement of antimalarial drug and vaccine candidates from November.
“This also adds a new challenge model to our already world-leading portfolio of viral challenge study models and continues to build on our global infectious disease expertise."