The National Institutes of Health (NIH) leads an investigation into a preventative vaccine targeting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) at the apex government research institute’s Clinical Center in Maryland. What if this vaccine would work Dr. Anthony S. Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), pondered—it “could prevent or reduce the severity of infection with the Epstein-Barr virus’ thereby reducing incidence of infectious mononucleosis,'' reported Fauci. He emphasized that such a breakthrough could also ‘Reduce the incidence of EBV-associated malignancies and autoimmune diseases.”
What is Epstein-Barr Virus?
A common pathogen and member of the herpes virus family, this disease can introduce serious complications. About 10% of people infected in America annually go on to experience significant fatigue, which can go on for half a year or more. It’s apparently similar to the long COVID-19 trend.
Only about 1% of all EBV-infected patients develop serious complications, including hepatitis, neurologic problems, or severe blood abnormalities. Moreover, EBV presence can be associated with cancer from stomach and nasopharyngeal cancers to Hodgkin and Burkett lymphomas. Moreover, scientists report the virus is connected to autoimmune diseases such as Lupus Erythematosus and multiple sclerosis.
The Investigational Vaccine
Developed by Novavax, this vaccine works by targeting EBV glycoprotein gp350, which is found on the surface of the virus and virus-infected cells. EBV gp350 is also the primary target for neutralizing antibodies found in the blood of people naturally infected with EBV. Ferritin, a natural iron storage protein found in cells of all living species, is considered a promising vaccine platform because it can display proteins from the targeted virus in a dense array on its surface.
The adjuvant is intended to enhance the immune response induced by the investigational vaccine.
The Study
40 healthy volunteer adults will be enrolled in Phase 1 of clinical trials. The adults will be between the ages of 18 to 29, with half of them having prior Epstein-Barr virus infections and the other half lacking any history with the virus. Similar to the COVID-19 vaccine or flu shot, participants will get a series of three 50-microgram injections to their upper arm muscle – followed by a short period of observation.
The second and third doses will be administered 30 days and 180 days after the initial dose, with follow-up visits between each vaccination and phone calls between visits. Participation is expected to be required for 18 to 30 months.
When could an Epstein-Barr virus vaccine be ready for the public?
This is Phase 1 of a clinical trial for a virus that has never been treated via vaccine, leaving scientists with a lot of learning ahead of them. The trial itself is expected to last for four years, then, if results hold strong, regulatory approval normally takes another few years.