Researchers at the University of Sydney have reportedly been rewarded over $1.12 million as funding from the IMCRC (Innovative Manufacturing CRC) to conduct independent clinical research tests to assess the efficacy of needle-free vaccination for at-risk individuals. The $1.12 million grant reflects the matched funding the university received from the Commonwealth Government funded IMCRC and Australian biotech firm, Vaxxas.

The two new clinical trials are specifically designed to assess the usability, acceptability, feasibility, and safety of Vaxxas’ vaccine delivery technology’s self-administration through an inactive substance. Both studies would aim at healthcare professionals and older adults who are prone to be severely affected by SARS-COV-2 and influenza.

Professor Rachel Skinner, lead researcher, Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney, as well as Kids Research at Sydney Children’s Hospital Network, stated that the device offers potential benefits in comparison to vaccination given using a syringe and needle based administration method.

The aim is for the device to need only a small dose of vaccine to create a similar immune response level in the recipient. Additionally, there is no need to refrigerate the device, which makes it easier and cheaper to store and transport. It is also developed to be easy to use, with the ability to be self-administered, added Skinner.

The said device is a biocompatible polymer of one square centimeter, which is smaller than a typical postage stamp, covered in thousands of micro-projections that cannot be seen with a naked eye. These micro-projections are covered with a vaccine formulation and designed to pierce the outer protective layer of the skin to deliver the vaccine to the cell layers that are present immediately below the skin, which is rich in immune cells.

A disposable applicator which contains the product is used to apply the device on the skin. However, this vaccine technology is currently still being developed and has not been authorized for use.

Source credit: https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2020/11/23/sydney-to-undertake-clinical-studies-of-needle-free-vaccine-patc0.html