BioVaxys Technology Corp. and Adiverna LLC have entered into a research agreement to develop mRNA-based vaccines for companion animal veterinary applications targeting rabies, leptospirosis, feline infectious peritonitis, and other diseases in dogs and cats. The collaboration combines BioVaxys' DPX™ Immune Educating Platform with Adiverna's proprietary artificial intelligence-designed mRNA sequences, aiming to create what could become the world's first mRNA veterinary vaccines for companion animals.
Adiverna's approach represents a groundbreaking development in veterinary healthcare, as no mRNA vaccines are currently approved for companion animals. The company utilizes machine learning algorithms and advanced bioinformatics to analyze extensive datasets, identifying and predicting the most effective mRNA sequences that code for protective broadly cross-neutralizing antigens. This AI-guided platform offers significant dose-sparing potential, reducing the amount of vaccine required while still eliciting robust immune responses.
BioVaxys' DPX platform addresses limitations faced by other antigen delivery methods, such as lipid nanoparticles. The technology presents antigens to the immune system using a novel non-systemic mechanism that forces active uptake by immune cells and delivery into lymphatic nodes, mimicking the natural function of the immune system. This "no release" mechanism allows for sustained activation of the immune system with T cell flow maintained over longer durations than traditional vaccines.
Kenneth Kovan, President and Chief Operating Officer of BioVaxys, explained that data from proof-of-concept studies demonstrate that DPX provides enhanced stability of packaged mRNA, attracts unique subsets of Antigen Presenting Cells to the injection site, and induces specific immune responses toward encoded antigens. The DPX platform offers advantages including non-systemic depot delivery, micro-dosing, excellent shelf-life stability, and clinically demonstrated efficacy, safety and tolerability in both human and animal health applications.
Traditional companion animal vaccines typically provide protection for either one or three years, depending on the specific product and local regulations. A DPX-formulated mRNA vaccine would offer superior, longer-lasting immunity with fewer doses, together with high-level, rapid, and durable neutralizing antibody responses. These vaccines would not use viral material and would have fewer impurities, reducing risks associated with injecting foreign, inactivated viruses.
The market potential for these veterinary vaccines is substantial. The global rabies veterinary vaccines market for inactivated and modified-live virus vector products is valued at US$785 million in 2024 and projected to reach approximately US$1.1 billion by 2030, growing at a 5.8% compound annual growth rate. Annual sales for canine leptospirosis killed vaccine formulations are part of the broader dog vaccine market valued at approximately $2.10 billion in 2025. The feline vaccines sector is projected to reach USD 3.28 billion by 2034, growing from USD 1.77 billion in 2025, according to data from https://www.researchandmarkets.com, https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com, and https://www.delveinsight.com.
Kirill Kalnin, PhD, Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Adiverna, stated that the collaboration is set to revolutionize routine annual vaccinations for dogs and cats, enhancing their safety and effectiveness while reducing the financial burden on pet owners. The innovative approach will offer more targeted dosing and improved protection compared to conventional vaccines and lays the foundation for pioneering advancements in RNA-based immunotherapeutics that could significantly enhance the quality of life and extend the lifespan of companion animals.
Driven by mandatory pet vaccinations, increasing disease awareness, and rising pet ownership, the companion animal vaccination market is dominated by North America, with the Asia/Pacific region experiencing rapid growth due to increasing vaccination campaigns in countries like India and China. The collaboration between BioVaxys and Adiverna represents a significant step toward addressing current limitations in veterinary vaccines while potentially establishing new standards for animal healthcare worldwide.
