Glycovax Pharma develops a vaccine to fight Pa-related infections

Working with the National Research Council Canada (NRC) and Université de Montréal

Montreal, Quebec, Canada, … date 2025 – Pseudomonas aeruginosa (Pa) is a bacterium responsible for nosocomial infections and often fatal infections in people living with cystic fibrosis. Glycovax Pharma, the National Research Council Canada (NRC) and Université de Montréal are partnering to finalize a new vaccine to fight this bacterium. There is currently no vaccine to prevent Pa-related infections.

The NRC team identified a target antigen in the saccharide capsule of Pa bacteria, which is common to several strains. This antigen can be synthesized chemically, and when conjugated to the CRM197 carrier protein, forms a semi-synthetic glycoconjugate. It proved immunogenic and safe in early in vivo trials and also showed promising bactericidal activity.

Background – The widespread use of antibiotics, since 1950, has been one of the most important therapeutic advances of the 20^th century, increasing life expectancy more than any other medical treatment. However, this approach has led to the development of antibiotic resistance (ABR) by certain micro-organisms, and a reduction in the efficacy of standard treatments. ABR makes infections more difficult to treat and increases the risk of disease spread in hospitals and the general population.

Pa is responsible for many chronic and progressive respiratory diseases. It is the leading cause of nosocomial pneumonia and respiratory failure in hospitals, especially in cystic fibrosis patients.

The availability of a Pa vaccine for patients with cystic fibrosis and those who are hospitalized for a stay at risk of nosocomial infection will represent a major public health advance.