Modern (NASDAQ: MRNA) was in the headlines again on Wednesday, following hopeful news about his mRNA-1273 candidate for coronavirus vaccine.
The company found that mRNA-1273 in a small clinical trial stage in the early stages produced what Moderna described as “consistently high levels” of neutralizing antibodies that can provide immunity to the coronavirus. These levels are comparable to those produced by younger adults, according to the company, which made the claims in a presentation to the Government’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Image Source: Getty Images.
The volume of antibodies was also higher than that of patients recovering from COVID-19, the disease activated by the coronavirus.
Moderna added that the vaccine candidate did not produce significant adverse effects on the dosed patients.
The study consisted of 20 participants, of whom ten were between 56 and 70 years old, and the rest 71 and older. mRNA-1273 was administered in two 100 microgram doses, 28 days apart.
The results of Moderna’s study have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed medical journal.
However, they are likely to include the position of mRNA-1273 as a leading candidate for vaccine – if not de leading vaccine candidate – currently undergoing clinical trials. It is currently recruiting patients for a Phase 3 clinical trial – the final stage before it can be submitted for approval by major regulators.
According to the company, it is on pace to meet its goal of setting up 30,000 participants in the trial. As of August 21, it had enrolled more than 13,000 people.
Investors were strongly encouraged by the announcement of the company. Shares of Moderna traded 11% higher in early afternoon trading on Wednesday.
