The candidate, known as R78C, is based on two antigens linked to the blood stage of Plasmodium falciparum.
A new agreement between the University of Oxford and the Serum Institute of India aims to support the development and manufacturing of a malaria vaccine candidate, marking a step in ongoing global health efforts.
The partnership focuses on advancing a multi-stage vaccine approach that targets the malaria parasite at different points in its lifecycle, a strategy researchers believe could lead to stronger and longer-lasting protection compared to existing methods.
The programme is being progressed through Oxford University Innovation, which has formalised the licensing arrangement to support further research, development and manufacturing efforts.
The candidate, known as R78C, is based on two antigens linked to the blood stage of Plasmodium falciparum and is being developed for clinical use.
Professor Simon Draper said combining multiple antigens that act across different lifecycle stages could improve the durability and strength of immune protection.
Dr Umesh Shaligram said continued scientific innovation remains essential in malaria prevention, especially as efforts move towards vaccines targeting different stages of the parasite’s lifecycle.
