Jeremy Salt, CEO of The Vaccine Group (TVG) talked with Proactive’s Stephen Gunnion about the company’s recent vaccine trial results targeting Bovine Respiratory Syncytial Virus (BRSV).
Salt highlighted that BRSV is a major cause of bovine respiratory disease, responsible for annual losses of approximately £54 million in the UK alone, and nearly £6 billion globally. “This is a critical disease,” Salt said, referencing data from the Pirbright Institute.
The trials, conducted with the Animal and Plant Health Agency in the UK, involved vaccinating calves and subsequently exposing them to high levels of the virus under controlled conditions. The study assessed clinical outcomes, virus shedding, and lung pathology, using a well-recognised industry model.
Salt emphasized that the company’s new vaccine offers advantages over existing options. Traditional vaccines, especially live or inactivated ones, have struggled due to maternal immunity interference and administration challenges. However, The Vaccine Group’s injectable candidate bypasses these issues by using a viral vector that avoids neutralisation by maternal antibodies, without the practical drawbacks of intranasal delivery.
The company is now exploring licensing deals and commercial development opportunities, with Salt noting that additional funding could enable internal development through contract manufacturers.