HHS has announced a four-year agreement between its Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and biotechnology company Crucell Holland B.V. that aims to advance the development of an experimental Ebola vaccine regimen.
Clinical studies of the vaccine regimen — which includes two components, a prime and a boost — first began in the United States and the United Kingdom in January. The second phase of the study began in July.
Valued at approximately $28.5 million, HHS says the agreement will "includes process optimization, characterization and validation of manufacturing processes; stability studies; fill-finish manufacturing; technology transfer between the two companies and related activities."
The agreement has the option of being extended for up to seven years total and $69 million.
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