Md. Firm Vies for Anthrax Vaccine
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The biotech world is littered with companies that failed in efforts to supply the government with products to prevent and treat bioterrorism casualties. The most recent high-stakes defeat: VaxGen, a California company that imploded after its $877.5 million contract to develop a new anthrax vaccine was canceled.
Now PharmAthene, a small Annapolis firm, hopes to pick up where VaxGen left off. Last week, it acquired the rights for an anthrax vaccine made by British company Avecia Biologics. PharmAthene officials said they plan to use the vaccine to try and win a new government contract for a next-generation vaccine. The contract could be worth more than $400 million. Eric Richman, senior vice president of business development and strategic planning for PharmAthene, said his company has what Avecia does not: clinical know-how and the ability to work closely with U.S. regulators.
The government relies on an older vaccine made by Emergent BioSolutions in Rockville. The government is seeking a new vaccine that requires fewer shots. Emergent's requires up to six doses.
Tracey Schmitt, a spokeswoman for Emergent, said the company doesn't think the government should be pursuing just the newer generation vaccine for the stockpile and favors a broader approach to mitigate risk.
-- Michael S. Rosenwald
