New Delhi: The Serum Institute of India (SII), the world’s largest vaccine manufacturer and Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), a not-for-profit research entity, have entered into a partnership with an aim to accelerate the development of a monoclonal antibody treatment for dengue fever.
The initiative specifically targets low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where dengue is endemic and health systems are often under strain during outbreaks, said a joint statement here from the organisations.
Despite the rising global burden of dengue — with an estimated 3.9 billion people at risk and cases more than doubling annually since 2021 — there is currently no specific treatment available. The new monoclonal antibody candidate, previously known as VIS513, has shown promise in pre-clinical studies and early-phase clinical trials led by SII, demonstrating safety and efficacy, added the statement.
The SII is currently leading a pivotal Phase III clinical trial in India, while SII and DNDi will now work together to conduct additional Phase III trials in other dengue-endemic countries, including Brazil, Malaysia and Thailand, it added.
The two entities will work jointly to implement research and development activities, raise necessary resources, and build strategies for regulatory approval and equitable access.
Dr Kavita Singh, Director of South Asia and Asia Continental Lead at DNDi, noted, “Dengue is no longer confined to historically endemic areas. Its spread into newer regions makes it imperative to invest in both preventive and therapeutic solutions”
She said climate change is altering patterns for dengue fever and other diseases. “Before, we didn’t have as many cases, or as many deaths,” she added.
Dr Prasad Kulkarni, executive director of SII, was of the opinion that this move would help advancing the clinical development of a dengue monoclonal antibody not only in India, but also in Brazil and other countries in Southeast Asia. Our aim is to make this treatment affordable and widely accessible.”
Since the start of 2025, more than 3 million dengue cases and over 1,400 dengue-related deaths have been reported across 90 countries in the WHO Regions of the America, South-East Asia, the Western Pacific, Eastern Mediterranean, and Africa.
