GSK licenses reverse genetics from MedImmune for flu vaccines

GAITHERSBURG, Md. MedImmune has licensed its reverse genetics intellectual property to GlaxoSmithKline to help the development of new vaccine strains that produce non-live human influenza vaccines.

Reverse genetics is a method by which viruses such as influenza can be generated from segments of DNA. It’s being used so often because; it allows manufacturers to work without being in contact with high infectious pandemic strains.

“MedImmune is pleased to enter into a fourth agreement to license our reverse genetics technology to manufacturers,” said Jonathan Klein-Evans, J.D., MedImmune’s vice president, intellectual property. “Making this important technology available to the vaccine development team at GlaxoSmithKline and their peers at other companies may have a significant positive impact on the manufacturing of influenza vaccines due to the efficiency and reliability of the process.”

MedImmune also has agreements with CSL Limited of Australia, Sanofi Pasteur and Novartis.