pPWRG7128

pPWRG7128 is an experimental DNA vaccine candidate designed for the prevention and potentially the treatment of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Developed by PowderMed (which was later acquired by Pfizer), the vaccine consists of a DNA plasmid vector, pPWR, encoding the Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). A distinguishing feature of pPWRG7128 is its delivery method; it was designed for use with the PowderJect (ND10) device, a needle-free system that utilizes pressurized helium to propel DNA-coated gold microparticles directly into the epidermal layer of the skin. This method targets the high density of antigen-presenting cells in the skin, such as Langerhans cells, to elicit both humoral (antibody) and cellular (T-cell) immune responses. Clinical studies demonstrated that the vaccine was generally well-tolerated and capable of inducing HBsAg-specific immune responses, although development was eventually discontinued by Pfizer.

Other names

PowderMed HBV DNA vaccineHBV DNA vaccine (pPWRG7128)