Aeras and the Oxford-Emergent Tuberculosis Consortium (OETC) have begun a Phase IIb proof-of-concept efficacy trial of MVA85A, an investigational tuberculosis vaccine for HIV patients.

The MVA85A vaccine candidate developed by OETC and Aeras is intended to boost the response of T-cells already stimulated by the BCG vaccine.

The trial will involve 1,400 adults aged 18-50, and will be conducted at research sites in Senegal and South Africa with primary funding support from the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership.

The vaccine has been awarded orphan drug status by the European Medicines Agency.