BiondVax and MonoSol Rx to collaborate on developing oral delivery for universal flu vaccine, M-001.

A material transfer agreement has been executed to allow sharing of patented technologies with the goal of formulating M-001 as a film stable at room temperature administered by placing under the tongue. Nes Ziona, Israel – October 18, 2012 – BiondVax Pharmaceuticals Ltd. (TASE: BNDX) today announced that the Company will conduct collaborative studies with MonoSol Rx located in New Jersey, USA, to investigate the activity of BiondVax’s universal influenza vaccine, M-001, when formulated utilizing MonoSol Rx’s PharmaFilm® technology. M- 001 in this form would be administered orally and should be stable at room temperature. The multiple advantages of an oral universal influenza vaccine include ease of delivery and increased compliance, due to the absence of needles, as well as ease of distribution. Since the film is small and likely stable at room temperature it could even be mailed in the post. These benefits could prove critical in the unfortunate event of an influenza pandemic, when rapid public access worldwide to influenza vaccines is demanded.The CSO of BiondVax, Dr Tamar Ben-Yedidia comments, “The universality and immunogenicity of our universal influenza vaccine, M-001, has been demonstrated in animal models and in the clinic. Now that we are taking M-001 through the advanced stages of clinical development, it is the right time to explore the option of delivery by mouth, as this route is easier for most people”.Dr Ron Babecoff, BiondVax’s CEO adds, “We are happy BiondVax is receiving worldwide recognition, which will enable us to move into the next phase of our business development, namely securing agreements with international Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies”.