Replikun Biotech to Commercialise a West Nile Virus Vaccine Technology
Dr. Lavinia Proctor, Replikun’s Chief Operating Officer, said that Replikun was pleased to have secured the rights to commercialise the West Nile virus vaccine technology.
“This vaccine technology serves to complement Replikun’s core technology platform, which is based on the novel Kunjin replicon gene delivery technology.”
Dr Nick Samaras, Replikun’s Executive Chairman, added, “There is significant interest from international Biotech/Pharma companies in Replikun’s novel Kunjin replicon technology. This technology may provide a superior alternative to other viral vectors, which do not have the mix of properties unique to the Kunjin replicon.
The addition of the West Nile virus vaccine technology secures for Replikun commercial rights to all Kunjin-related patents, further strengthening Replikun’s comprehensive intellectual property offering.” UniQuest’s Managing Director, Mr. David Henderson, said the licensing deal was significant for the University on many levels.
“As well has providing an additional revenue stream to boost their work in this area, the licensing agreement means the researchers can see the benefits of their discovery have an impact on the quality of life of millions of people worldwide. This potentially deadly virus is particularly prevalent in the developing nations of the southern hemisphere and has spread to a number of other continents,” Mr Henderson said.
“The West Nile virus research licence reflects the University’s objectives in the areas of research and community engagement, and we are very proud to have been involved with a project that will enable a life-saving and life-improving vaccine to be developed sooner”.
Replikun’s lead products are a cancer immunotherapy RPK-739 and a therapeutic HIV vaccine RPK-8129, both of which are based on the company’s proprietary Kunjin replicon vaccine delivery technology. The Kunjin replicon is a Queensland innovation developed by The University of Queensland, the Sir Albert Sakzewski Virus Research Centre and the Queensland Institute of Medical Research. The Kunjin replicon technology is founded upon over 40 years of academic investigation into the biology of the Kunjin virus, a native Australian Flavivirus.
About Replikun Biotech: Replikun Biotech Pty Limited is a privately held immunotherapy company founded in March 2005. The company is focused on the development and commercialization of novel immunotherapies to combat infectious diseases and cancer. Replikun offers licensing and collaboration opportunities based on the Kunjin replicon vectors, its proprietary gene delivery and expression technology. Kunjin replicon vectors are non-cytopathic, self-amplifying vectors that stimulate protective, cell mediated immune responses. The technology is underpinned by an integrated portfolio of granted and pending patent applications which comprise the Kunjin replicon vector, their pharmaceutical applications and methods of manufacture. About UniQuest Pty Limited: UniQuest is widely recognised as one of Australia’s largest and most successful university commercialisation companies. Established by The University of Queensland in 1984, UniQuest fosters links between the University – with its valuable emerging technologies, expertise and facilities – and the financial and entrepreneurial resources of industry, business and government.
Contact Details: Dr. Lavinia Proctor Chief Operating Officer Replikun Biotech Pty Limited Level 1, 80 Jephson Street Toowong QLD 4066 T: +61 7 3327 9829 F: +61 7 3217 8737 www.replikun.com
Dr. Don Kakuda Commercialisation Manager UniQuest Pty Limited Level 7, GP South The University of Queensland Brisbane 4072 T: +61 7 3365 4037 F: +61 7 3365 4433 www.uniquest.com.au