Tonix Pharmaceuticals’ TNX-801 Vaccine Receives Grant for Development Amidst Mpox Public Health Emergency
The World Health Organization (WHO) recently declared the spread of new clade Ib Mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC). This marks the second Mpox-related WHO PHEIC declaration in two years. The new clade has been detected in several countries in Central and Eastern Africa, as well as China, Thailand, Singapore, India, England, parts of Europe and the Middle East, Canada, and the United States.
Background on Mpox
Mpox, also known as monkeypox, is a rare viral disease that is similar to smallpox. It is transmitted to humans from animals through close contact, and symptoms include fever, rash, and muscle aches. While generally less severe than smallpox, Mpox can still result in significant morbidity and mortality, especially in vulnerable populations.
TNX-801 Vaccine Development
Amidst this growing public health concern, Tonix Pharmaceuticals Holding Corp. (Tonix) has been awarded a grant from the Medical CBRN Defense Consortium (MCDC) to support the development of TNX-801, Tonix’s recombinant horsepox virus, live vaccine. The grant is aimed at advancing the clinical development of TNX-801 and enhancing its potential for use in the prevention of Mpox.
Animal Model Studies
Tolerability of TNX-801 in immune-compromised animal models has been studied, providing evidence for the vaccine’s safety and efficacy in a wide range of populations. These studies have shown that TNX-801 can be administered safely to immune-compromised animals, which is an important consideration given the potential for Mpox to disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.
Impact on Individuals
For individuals, the development of TNX-801 represents a potential solution to the current Mpox outbreak. Vaccination is an effective strategy for preventing the spread of infectious diseases, and the availability of a safe and effective vaccine could help protect individuals from contracting Mpox. Moreover, the potential for the vaccine to be effective in immune-compromised individuals is an important consideration for those at higher risk.
Impact on the World
On a global scale, the development of TNX-801 could significantly impact the ongoing Mpox outbreak. Widescale vaccination campaigns could help prevent the further spread of the disease, particularly in areas where it is most prevalent. Furthermore, the availability of a safe and effective vaccine could help alleviate concerns about the potential for Mpox to evolve into a more severe or transmissible form, as has been seen with other viral diseases in the past.
Conclusion
The ongoing Mpox outbreak, as declared a public health emergency of international concern by the WHO, highlights the importance of continued research and development into vaccines and other preventative measures. Tonix Pharmaceuticals’ TNX-801 vaccine, which has shown promise in animal model studies, represents a potential solution to the current outbreak. With the support of a grant from the MCDC, the clinical development of TNX-801 can continue, potentially leading to a widely available and effective vaccine for the prevention of Mpox.
- WHO declares new clade Ib Mpox a public health emergency of international concern
- TNX-801, a recombinant horsepox virus, live vaccine, receives grant for clinical development
- Tolerability of TNX-801 in immune-compromised animal models supports clinical development
- Mpox outbreak affects several countries, disproportionately impacting vulnerable populations
- Widescale vaccination campaigns could help prevent further spread of Mpox
