hVIVO engages in major phase 2b influeness drug study as exclusive UK clinical site

hVIVO plc (AIM & Euronext: HVO), a rapidly expanding specialist contract research organisation (CRO) renowned for its expertise in human challenge clinical trials for infectious and respiratory diseases, has announced its latest engagement in a significant Phase 2b field study. The study will assess an influenza drug candidate, marking a milestone as hVIVO’s largest field study contract to date. This initiative underscores hVIVO’s growing prominence in the CRO industry, with the study set to commence in Q4 2024 at the company’s Plumbers Row site in London.

As the sole UK clinical site, hVIVO will enroll up to 1,000 healthy volunteers through its dedicated recruitment arm, FluCamp. The study, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multicenter dose selection trial, will administer either the influenza drug candidate or a placebo to participants. Following administration, participants will leave the facility and be monitored over subsequent months through regular clinical check-ups to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the drug.

This new contract is expected to significantly contribute to hVIVO’s revenues, primarily recognized in the fiscal year 2025. The commencement aligns with hVIVO’s strategic expansion and relocation efforts, including the transformation of its former corporate office at Plumbers Row into an expanded outpatient unit. This expansion will enhance the company’s capacity to support future Phase II and Phase III field studies, reflecting hVIVO’s strategic focus on diversifying its revenue streams and improving staff utilization by leveraging its robust volunteer recruitment platform.

Yamin ‘Mo’ Khan, Chief Executive Officer of hVIVO, expressed enthusiasm about the new contract: “I am delighted to sign this field study contract to assess the efficacy and safety of our client’s influenza drug candidate. This project not only highlights our effective recruitment capabilities but also opens new growth opportunities for the Group.” Khan’s comments highlight the pivotal role this study plays in hVIVO’s growth strategy, aimed at diversifying the company’s revenue base while utilizing existing resources and infrastructure.

The engagement of hVIVO in this extensive field study could set a new standard for how CROs support pharmaceutical advancements, particularly in the realm of infectious diseases. hVIVO’s strategic decision to expand and utilize its London site for such significant clinical trials illustrates the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in research.