Corrected: UPDATE 1-GSK to advance mRNA flu vaccine to late-stage trial

Moderna

01/09/2026 07:28

Corrects paragraph 4 to clarify that GSK plans to start more than 20, not 25, late-stage trials in 2026
Sept 1 (Reuters) - GSK GSK.L said on Tuesday it will advance its mRNA-based seasonal influenza vaccine candidate to a late-stage trial after mid-stage data showed it generated stronger immune responses than currently approved standard- and high-dose shots in younger and older adults.
The British drugmaker said it would be the first late-stage trial of an mRNA flu vaccine designed to target two key surface proteins, haemagglutinin and neuraminidase, an approach GSK said could improve protection and reduce transmission.
In August, Moderna MRNA.O had won U.S. approval for its mFlusiva, the first mRNA-based vaccine for seasonal flu, for people aged 50 and older.
The move comes as part of GSK's plans to start more than 20 late-stage studies by the end of 2026, following a portfolio review by CEO Luke Miels aimed at speeding up drug development ahead of looming patent cliffs.
GSK intends to begin the late-stage trial for the mRNA flu vaccine candidate this month.

 (Reporting by Raechel Thankam Job in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips and Sonia Cheema)
 ((RaechelThankam.Job@thomsonreuters.com;))