NIH Launches Universal Vaccine Platform
Photo: BILLION PHOTOS/SHUTTERSTOCK
NIH is developing the next-generation, universal vaccine platform, Generation Gold Standard, using a beta-propiolactone (BPL)-inactivated, whole-virus platform.
This initiative represents a shift toward transparency, effectiveness and comprehensive preparedness, funding the NIH’s in-house development of universal influenza and coronavirus vaccines, including candidates BPL-1357 and BPL-24910. These vaccines aim to provide broad-spectrum protection against multiple strains of pandemic-prone viruses such as H5N1 avian influenza and coronaviruses.
The program realigns the operations of Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA)—an agency within HHS—with its statutory mission to prepare for all influenza viral threats, not just those currently circulating.
“Generation Gold Standard is a paradigm shift,” said NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya. “It extends vaccine protection beyond strain-specific limits and prepares for flu viral threats—not just today’s, but tomorrow’s as well—using traditional vaccine technology brought into the 21st century.”
Generation Gold Standard, developed by NIH’s National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID):
Recalibrates pandemic preparedness
Unlike traditional vaccines that target specific strains, BPL-inactivated whole-virus vaccines preserve the virus’s structural integrity while eliminating infectivity. This approach induces robust B and T cell immune responses and offers long-lasting protection across diverse viral families. Moreover, the intranasal formulation of BPL-1357 is currently in Phase Ib and II/III trials and is designed to block virus transmission—an innovation absent from current flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
Embodies efficient, transparent research
The BPL platform is fully government-owned and NIH-developed. This approach ensures transparency, public accountability and freedom from commercial conflicts of interest.
Marks the future of vaccine development
In addition to influenza and coronavirus, the BPL platform is adaptable for future use against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), metapneumovirus and parainfluenza. It also offers the unprecedented capability to protect against avian influenza without inducing antigenic drift—a major step forward in proactive pandemic prevention.
Clinical trials for universal influenza vaccines are scheduled to begin in 2026, with FDA approval targeted for 2029. The intranasal flu vaccine, now in advanced trials, is also on track for FDA review by 2029.