“This expanded support from CEPI [the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations] gives us the opportunity to build even stronger capabilities to respond quickly to new threats and rapidly develop effective vaccines. We look forward to generating exciting new data with our influenza candidate during the autumn and winter and laying the foundation for future clinical studies,” says Maria Alriksson, CEO of Abera Bioscience.

A nasal influenza vaccine candidate

Abera is developing a novel nasal influenza vaccine candidate. Abera’s platform uses naturally derived vesicles from bacteria, so-called OMVs (Outer Membrane Vesicles), which can be decorated with antigens to effectively stimulate the immune system. Nasal vaccines could provide rapid protection directly in the nasal mucosa, where the virus first enters, states the company. This could generate a special type of immunity known as mucosal immunity which could be key to reducing disease and stopping the onward transmission of viruses, believes the company.

The additional funding will allow Abera to carry out more preclinical proof-of-concept studies and test various process optimizations for rapid and scalable antigen production, the company states. The goal is to validate the platform’s flexibility and adaptability in preparation for future pandemic threats.

The project, that is now extended, was initiated in October 2024 and will now run until 31 March 2026.