Scientists Develop Single-Dose HIV Vaccine, Multi-Virus Filovirus Vaccine Advances

Researchers from MIT and the Scripps Research Institute have developed a supercharged HIV vaccine that produces a strong immune response with just one injection by using a combination of two adjuvants, alum and SMNP, which help stimulate the immune system and extend vaccine presence in lymph nodes. This dual-adjuvant approach resulted in a wider diversity of antibodies and could be applied to other infectious diseases including COVID-19 and influenza, potentially enabling single-dose vaccines. Meanwhile, an international consortium led by Denmark’s Adaptvac, supported by $12.4 million from CEPI and the EU, is working to develop an all-in-one vaccine targeting multiple deadly filoviruses such as Ebola and Marburg, diseases that cause frequent outbreaks in Africa with high mortality rates. The new filovirus vaccine aims to protect high-risk populations and fill the gaps left by existing vaccines, addressing severe viral threats with pandemic potential. Both projects represent significant advances in vaccine technology, focusing on broad protection and improved preparedness against current and emerging infectious diseases. These efforts highlight growing global collaboration and innovation to tackle high-fatality viruses through novel vaccine platforms.