Affiris Begins Development Of A Parkinson’s Vaccine
AFFiRiS has announced the start of the pre-clinical development of its first Parkinson’s vaccine PD01. The vaccine will be investigated for efficacy (”proof of concept”) in Parkinson models. On successful conclusion of this preclinical evaluation, initial clinical testing could start in 2010/11. The Parkinson’s vaccine specifically targets the alpha-synuclein (alpha-syn) protein, which is considered to be a key contributory element in Parkinson’s disease. There is clear scientific evidence that the concentration and enrichment of alpha-syn in the brain are contributing factors in the progression of Parkinson’s disease.

After two years of its approval, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices has detected no major problems with the safety of the HPV vaccine, Gardasil. The vaccine is used to protect against infection caused by the sexually transmitted virus, the HPV, that leads to genital warts and cervical cancer. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has recommended the vaccination of girls at the age of 11 (much before they turn sexually active). No serious side effects have been found.
MedImmune
Recent clinical studies at the Institute of Virology, Erasmus Medical Centre, Rotterdam
A recent research carried out jointly by scientists from the universities of Bristol and Harvard has shown the way in which immune system can detect and destroy the bacterium, pneumococcus. It paves the way for the development of a novel vaccine for the prevention of diseases like meningitis and pneumonia that are found in both children and adults. Many infections start because of the carriage of this bug in the nose. The existing vaccines for these diseases are not suitable for use in poorer countries as they are too expensive. Immune cells called TH17 cells have been identified as beneficial in killing this bug.
Merck’s cervical vaccine
A recent study has concluded that the