Modern (NASDAQ: MRNA) became known for its coronavirus vaccine, which has recently been authorized by several regulatory agencies. But the underlying messenger RNA (mRNA) technology of biotechnology can be used to produce other vaccines as well. In fact, the company has 24 development programs, including three new programs – released on Monday – that deal with seasonal flu, HIV and the Nipah virus.
The company’s three flu vaccine candidates are testing various combinations of mRNAs that, hopefully, will protect against the four seasonal viruses named by the World Health Organization (WHO). The first clinical trials for the program are due to begin next year. If approved, there is the potential to combine influenza vaccine with Moderna’s coronavirus vaccine, as well as combine it with vaccines under development to protect against respiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus.
For the HIV vaccine program, Moderna is taking a dual approach with different strategies to invoke an immune reaction to protect against viral infection. Moderna is getting help with both candidates: mRNA-1644 is being developed in collaboration with the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, while mRNA-1574 is being evaluated in collaboration with the National Institutes of Health (NIH ). Both candidates are expected to enter clinical trials this year.
At this point, the Nipah virus program does not have the same potential as the flu and HIV programs. But that could change quickly, as the virus is on the WHO list of potential epidemic threats after isolated outbreaks in India, Bangladesh, Malaysia and Singapore.
Although sales of the coronavirus vaccine are important for Moderna’s short-term evaluation, long-term investors should be alert to the development of a well-stocked line of vaccines that are candidates for biotechnology.