IBIO-202

IBIO-202 is a **subunit vaccine candidate** developed by iBio for the prevention of COVID-19. Unlike first-generation COVID-19 vaccines that target the spike (S) protein, IBIO-202 targets the **nucleocapsid (N) protein** of SARS-CoV-2. The N protein is more highly conserved across variants than the S protein, potentially offering broader protection against emerging variants. The vaccine is manufactured using iBio's plant-based **FastPharming® Manufacturing System**. Preclinical studies demonstrated a robust, antigen-specific memory T-cell response with both intramuscular and intranasal administration routes. However, IND-enabling challenge studies in immunologically naïve hamsters showed that IBIO-202 did not provide protective effect as an "N-only" vaccine, leading iBio to decide not to move forward with IND submission. The development followed iBio's "DAVi" strategy (Durability, Access, and Variant-inclusion) aimed at creating a next-generation vaccine that could complement existing S protein-directed vaccines.