RiVax

RiVax is a recombinant protein subunit vaccine candidate designed to provide protection against ricin poisoning. It consists of a genetically engineered version of the ricin toxin A-chain (RTA) that has been modified with two specific amino acid substitutions (V76M and I110A). These modifications are intended to eliminate the ribotoxic activity and the ability to induce vascular leak syndrome (VLS) associated with the native toxin, while maintaining the protein's immunogenicity. The vaccine works by eliciting the production of neutralizing antibodies that prevent ricin from entering cells and inhibiting protein synthesis. Originally developed by researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, the vaccine has been advanced through clinical trials by Soligenix and is typically formulated with an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant (alum) for intramuscular administration.

Other names

RTA-V76M/I110ARecombinant ricin toxin A-chain vaccine