Pfizer and BioNTech announce a new research, development and commercialization collaboration aimed at developing a potential first mRNA-based vaccine for the prevention of shingles (herpes zoster virus).
This is their third collaboration in the field of infectious diseases, after that on the influenza vaccine initiated in 2018 and that on the mRNA vaccine against Covid-19 initiated in 2020. Clinical trials should begin in the second half of 2022.
Under the terms of the deal, Pfizer will make $ 225 million in upfront payments to BioNTech, including $ 75 million in cash and an equity investment of $ 150 million. BioNTech may also receive future milestone payments of up to $ 200 million.