X-eVaxTechnology
Takis has developed the X-eVax platform, where “X” stands for “Antigen X” and “e-Vax” stands for “vaccine delivery through electroporation”. X-eVax is a “precision medicine vaccine” approach designed to induce a strong immune response while minimizing potential undesired effects. The vaccine consists in an intramuscular injection followed by the delivery of brief, low voltage, electrical pulses which induces a strong immune response against the antigen.
Takis X-eVax process includes three phases: 1) antigen identification and gene engineering; 2) vaccine construction, test in preclinical models, proof of concept and manufacturing; 3) vaccine administration and clinical trials.
Takis X-eVax* Process
Extensive Study of Antigens and Properties
Antigen Modification and Engineering
- Choice of targets crucial for infecting human cells or for Cancer
Vaccine Construction,Test and Manufacturing
Recombinant DNA Plasmid
- Fast and cheap manufacturing
- Stable at room temperature
Vaccine Administration DNA Electro
Gene Transfer Technology (EGT)
- Low voltage pulses
- Efficient expression and induction of immune response
- Fast and painless procedure
* «X»= Antigen X
«eVax»=vaccine delivered by electroporation
Due to its nature, X-eVax platform has a number of important advantages:
- Repeatability. The DNA can be administered several times, without the induction of neutralizing antibodies against the vaccine itself, as instead may happen with viral vector vaccines;
- Immunogenicity. The vaccine is capable of inducing both antibodies and Th-1 cell-mediated response;
- Specificity. X-eVax targets specific regions which have a specific biological role for the disease;
- Safety. By targeting specific antigens and/or regions it is supposed to minimize the risk of undesired side effect observed for other vaccines;
- Adaptability. X-eVax genetic design can be easily adapted to mutations in case of virus variants, antibiotic resistance (bacteria) or tumor evolution connected with immune escape;
- Formulation and Production. The plasmid DNA is produced in bacteria, then extracted and purified, without using viral vectors amplified in mammalian cells. This allows shorter production times, less expensive process, easier transport and storage, and potentially a better safety profile;
- Stability. DNA is a molecule potentially stable for long time at room temperature, allowing shipment and storage without a cold chain.
- Epidemic Preparedness. The DNA technology could be used in several other areas of prevention and therapeutics.
X-eVax Advantages
Long lasting, repeated Boosting
DNA is a more stable genetic information compared to RNA No induction of antibodies against the vaccine itself (contrary to with viral vector vaccines)
Targeting specific Regions
Minimal region within the target antigens:
- Consensus sequences
Responses
Capable of inducing both humoral (antibodies) and Th-1 cell-mediated responses
Easy Adaptation
The genetic design can be easily adapted in case of resistant variants
Optimized Production Process
Produced in bacteria:
- no need of viral vectors amplified in mammalian cells or complex formulation such as lipoparticles
- Shorter production times, less expensive process, easier transport and storage
Stable at Room Temperature
DNA is relatively stable Lyophilization possible Possibility to ship globally