SARS (D3252)

Protein Sciences' Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) vaccine candidate (D3252) is comprised of purified recombinant Spike protein from the SARS virus. Preclinical studies have shown that immunization with D3252 that can elicit neutralizing antibodies (analogous to influenza).

SARS emerged as an infectious agent from an outbreak in 2003 and is a respiratory disease caused by a coronavirus. Main symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. SARS was fatal in approximately 10-15% of cases. As of July 31, 2004, 8,096 cases were identified worldwide and 774 people died (Source: World Health Organization). There are no preventative or treatment options available for SARS.

Protein Sciences is developing D3252 through a grant from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID). The product is anticipated to enter Phase I clinical trials in 2009.