PEBS

PEBS (P. falciparum Pre-Erythrocytic and Blood Stage) is a first-generation protein subunit vaccine developed by Vac4All targeting the Liver-Stage Antigen-5 (LSA5) for protection against Plasmodium falciparum malaria. The vaccine is designed to induce immunity against both the liver (pre-erythrocytic) and blood (asexual) stages of the malaria parasite. It is manufactured as a synthetic protein of 131 amino acids and is adjuvanted with aluminum hydroxide. Clinical testing in Phase 1/2a trials demonstrated safety in humans, although the immune responses were considered unsatisfactory, likely due to inadequate adjuvantation. This has led to the development of second-generation candidates, such as LSA5 Biofusion, which aim to improve upon the first-generation prototype.