GlaxoSmithKline, with a research facility in Collegeville, is the latest in a line of pharmaceutical manufacturers that are working on a potential vaccine for the new strain of coronavirus, writes John George for the Philadelphia Business Journal.

Last week, the company has announced its collaboration with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations. As part of this, GSK will make its established pandemic vaccine adjuvant platform technology available to improve the development of an effective vaccine against the new strain of the virus.

The coronavirus outbreak has already killed over 362 people and infected more than 17,300. The virus has so far been confirmed in more than 25 countries and territories.

When added to a vaccine, GSK’s adjuvant system enhances the immune response in the user to create stronger immunity that lasts longer against targeted infections.

“Coupling GSK’s adjuvant systems with the pioneering platform technology we are funding has the potential to make more vaccine available more rapidly – by decreasing the dose of vaccine antigen required to protect each individual,” said Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEPI’s CEO.

He added that this makes a given supply of vaccines go further and increases the number of people who can benefit.

Read more about GlaxoSmithKline at the Philadelphia Business Journal by clicking here.