A pharmaceutical company based in Chatham, New Jersey, in US, has announced a research agreement with Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) to develop and test a vaccine for Mpox.
Tonix Pharmaceuticals and KEMRI design and conduct a Phase I clinical trial of TNX-801, an investigational vaccine designed to prevent Mpox.
“The trial will take place in Kenya, focusing on assessing the vaccine's safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity,” a statement said.
Tonix Pharmaceuticals CEO Dr. Seth Lederman expressed his optimism over the collaboration.
“We are excited to move forward with this important trial in partnership with KEMRI. Given the continued spread of Mpox and the recent global health concerns, there is an urgent need for a durable, single-dose vaccine like TNX-801. Preclinical data has been highly encouraging, and we believe TNX-801 aligns with the World Health Organisation's preferred characteristics for Mpox vaccines. Our goal is to contribute to the global effort to halt the spread of this infectious disease,” he said.
KEMRI Director General Prof Elijah Songok said his institution is proud to partner with Tonix Pharmaceuticals in the endeavour to address the global health threat posed by Mpox.
“As an Institute at the forefront of medical research in Africa, we recognise the importance of developing innovative solutions that are accessible and effective. The planned clinical trial of TNX-801 reflects our ongoing commitment to advancing scientific research that not only benefits Kenya but also contributes to global efforts to prevent and manage emerging infectious diseases. Together, we aim to make significant strides in ensuring the safety and well-being of communities at risk,” Songok said.
The announcement comes as the World Health Organisation declared a rise in Mpox cases across Africa.
Cases of the newly identified Clade Ib Mpox have also been reported in non-endemic regions such as Sweden, Thailand, Singapore, and India, highlighting the pandemic potential of the virus.
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral zoonotic disease similar to smallpox, though less severe.
