Affinivax launches, aiming to develop novel conjugate vaccine

Affinivax, a US biotechnology company dedicated to developing novel vaccines, today announced its launch with a $4 million investment from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. This commitment from the Gates Foundation also includes additional investments in Affinivax based on the achievement of future success-based milestones.

Proceeds from the funding will be used to develop Affinivax’ Multiple Antigen Presenting System (MAPS) technology platform and enable the development of novel vaccines to protect children and adults in both the developed and developing worlds, with an initial focus on the company’s lead drug program for Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus).

George Siber is Affinivax’ lead scientific advisor and served as executive vice president and chief scientific officer of Wyeth Vaccines (now part of Pfizer), where he oversaw the development and approval of multiple widely used childhood vaccines, including Prevnar, a pneumococcal vaccine, which generated sales of $4.05 billion last year.