Scientists have successfully tested an AI-designed universal coronavirus vaccine in humans for the first time, finding it to be safe and well tolerated. The vaccine generated immune responses against multiple coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, SARS, and related bat viruses with pandemic potential. By targeting features shared across an entire virus family, it aims to provide protection even as viruses evolve.

The super antigen is compatible with most vaccine delivery systems. In this trial it was administered as DNA vaccine through a micro fluid jet. This needle-free delivery method offers an alternative to those with a fear of needle-based injections. Credit: University of Cambridge

A new type of universal coronavirus vaccine has passed its first human clinical trial, marking an important step toward broader protection against future virus outbreaks.

Developed by researchers at the University of Cambridge and the university spinout company DIOSynVax (DVX) Ltd, the experimental vaccine was found to be safe and caused no significant side effects in a study involving 39 healthy volunteers.

Unlike conventional vaccines that target specific virus strains, this vaccine was designed to protect against multiple members of the Sarbeco coronavirus family. This group includes SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as SARS and several related bat coronaviruses that could potentially spill over into humans in the future.

The trial showed that the vaccine stimulated immune responses not only against SARS-CoV-2 and SARS, but also against related bat viruses that have not yet infected humans.

The findings were published in the Journal of Infection.

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