The analysis was performed on blood cells from COVID-19 convalescent patients with different clinical outcomes and has enabled the identification of specific CD8+ T-cell responses relevant to SARS-CoV-2. The analysis was conducted using ImmunoScape's immunomics-based technology platform and deep immunomics platform, which enables the characterization of a patient's immunome at ultrahigh resolution. The peptides identified may be associated with clinically beneficial T-cell immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 conserved genes.

In a follow-up, Valo will use its proprietary PeptiVax technology to coat a spike-expressing adenoviral vector vaccine with human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-restricted peptides. This platform provides a flexible and quick approach to addressing new variants by coating the adenovirus with the associated clinical grade target peptides rather than re-engineering and manufacturing a completely new viral vector. The resulting vaccine is expected to generate strong T-cell responses against selected antigens.

The companies are focused on peptide sequences related to conserved antigens across the coronavirus family with the aim to develop a pancoronavirus vaccine that will also deliver protection against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants.

Financial details of the collaboration were not disclosed.