IAVI, Merck KGaA, Serum Institute join hands to develop monoclonal antibodies for Covid-19

Serum Institute of India and not-for-profit scientific research organisation IAVI have joined hands with science and technology company Merck to develop SARS-CoV-2 neutralising monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).

A phase-I clinical trial is expected to start in early 2021. Serum Institute will lead global manufacturing as well as commercialisation in low- and middle-low-income countries, including India, if the antibody candidates show efficacy in clinical trials, either as a single antibody or a potential combination, the companies said in a joint statement.