Genvira, LabSkin, and NRC Collaborate to Develop Immunotherapies for Melanoma

Genvira and NRC were Highlighted for their Collaborative Project

Announcement

Genvira Biosciences Inc., a pioneering Canadian innovator in viral vectors, LabSkin Limited, a global leader in 3D in vitro human skin models, and the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) will be introducing a collaborative project to build immunotherapies for malignant melanoma. Their partnership project will receive funds from the Canada-UK biomanufacturing of biologics and advanced therapies program of around €1.2 million ($2.0 million).

The UK participants received support from Innovate UK, a part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), whereas, in Canada, the project is supported via the NRC collaborative science and technology innovation program (NRC CSTIP). NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (NRC IRAP).

Need for the Development

The malignant melanoma remains a severe global health concern, with approximately 330,000 new cases and around 60,000 deaths each year. This overseas partnership focuses on identifying the required need by initiating the development of the next-generation cancer vaccines and improving antigen-driven delivery systems.

Other Initiatives Through this Partnership

Under this partnership, Labskin will contribute its expertise to the advanced disease modeling for the development of a 3D human skin model of melanoma, implementing it in vitro testing of vaccine candidates. Genvira will support its proprietary gene delivery and viral vector platforms, while the NRC will help with the compilation of mRNA technologies to engineer innovative, targeted immunotherapies for melanoma.

The project collectively bolsters uniqueness and complementary strengths in viral, gene, mRNA technology, advanced biomanufacturing, and 3D tissue engineering therapy. Additionally, in therapeutic development, the consortium will mainly focus on excellent technologies, scalable production processes, and quality control assays to provide quick responses to future healthcare challenges. This initiative spotlights the value of the international partnership in fueling innovation and leveraging the development of therapeutics and advanced biologics.

Views and Statements

Scientific director at Labskin Limited, Dr. Nicola Kingswell, said, “We’re thankful to Innovate UK for contributing to the project. It symbolizes a positive change in the treatment of malignant melanoma, which will benefit many patients globally. This collaboration will produce and validate new immunotherapies. It has also established an excellent framework for developing next-generation cancer therapeutics.”

President of Genvira Biosciences, Dr. Jiahu wang said, “Firstly, huge thanks to NRC IRAP for their support and the NRC for their effective partnership role. This collaboration helps us to continuously translate our viral vector technologies into clinical applications for melanoma. It helps us to broaden advancement in cancer immunotherapy.”