Medicago H5N1 VLP vaccine

The Medicago H5N1 VLP vaccine is an experimental, plant-produced virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine designed to protect against the H5N1 strain of avian influenza. Developed using Medicago's proprietary Proficia platform, the vaccine is produced in *Nicotiana benthamiana* plants, which serve as bioreactors to express the viral hemagglutinin (HA) protein. These proteins self-assemble into VLPs that mimic the external structure of the influenza virus but lack the genetic material required for replication, ensuring they are non-infectious. In clinical studies, the vaccine was evaluated for safety and immunogenicity in healthy adults, often in combination with adjuvants such as Alhydrogel (aluminum hydroxide) or Glucopyranosyl Lipid Adjuvant in Squalene Emulsion (GLA-SE) to enhance the immune response. Medicago ceased operations in early 2023, leading to the termination of its development programs.

Other names

H5 VLP vaccineH-5 VLP vaccineH 5 VLP vaccineplant-made H5 VLP influenza vaccineKeytruda-Medicago-H5N1 influenzaKeytruda-Medicago-H-5N1 influenzaKeytruda-Medicago-H 5N1 influenza