HD-MAP pandemic influenza vaccine

The HD-MAP pandemic influenza vaccine is a needle-free, microarray patch-based immunization candidate developed by Vaxxas, specifically designed for rapid deployment during an influenza pandemic. The platform utilizes a high-density microarray patch (HD-MAP) featuring thousands of vaccine-coated micro-projections that penetrate the outer layers of the skin to deliver the antigen directly to the immune-rich dermis and epidermis. This delivery method targets a high concentration of antigen-presenting cells, such as Langerhans cells and dermal dendritic cells, which can lead to enhanced immunogenicity and potential dose-sparing effects compared to traditional intramuscular injections. The lead pandemic candidate, VX-103, typically incorporates a monovalent H5N1 (avian influenza) recombinant hemagglutinin antigen. A key advantage of this technology is its dry-formulation stability, which may eliminate the requirement for continuous cold-chain storage and simplify logistics in a pandemic scenario.

Other names

Vaxxas HD-MAP H5N1 vaccineMicroarray Patch Influenza Vaccine