GSK to Move mRNA Flu Vaccine into Late-Stage Clinical Trials

GSK is preparing to advance its experimental mRNA-based seasonal influenza vaccine into late-stage clinical development after promising results from a mid-stage study.

The British pharmaceutical company said the vaccine produced stronger immune responses than currently approved standard- and high-dose flu vaccines in both younger and older adults. GSK plans to launch the late-stage trial this month.

The company said the study would be the first late-stage clinical trial of an mRNA flu vaccine specifically designed to target two major proteins found on the surface of influenza viruses: haemagglutinin and neuraminidase. According to GSK, targeting both proteins could potentially provide broader protection against influenza and help reduce transmission.

The move comes shortly after Moderna received U.S. approval for mFlusiva, the first mRNA-based seasonal influenza vaccine. The vaccine was approved in August for adults aged 50 and older.

GSK's decision is also part of a broader strategy to accelerate the development of new medicines. The company plans to launch 25 late-stage clinical studies by the end of 2026 as it works to strengthen its drug pipeline and prepare for the loss of patent protection on several products.

If successful, GSK's mRNA vaccine could represent another step toward expanding the use of mRNA technology beyond COVID-19 and into seasonal influenza prevention.

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