R&D News in brief

Slow-release vaccine on course
Scientists say slow-release vaccines, which would cut the need for booster jabs, could be ready for use in five years' time. The jab uses controlled-release of microscopic nanoparticles that release the vaccine into the body over a few weeks. Developer Cambridge BioStability says the new technology could save money on programmes, particularly in the developing world. The development project is being part funded through a £1.5m grant from the Department of Trade and Industry.

Protelos shines in study
Servier's osteoporosis treatment, Protelos, is effective in reducing nonvertebral and vertebral fractures over five years, according to two new studies presented at the Sixth European Congress on Clinical and Economic Aspects of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis. One trial of 1649 postmenopausal women with osteoporosis found that Protelos significantly reduced the long-term risk of developing a new vertebral fracture by 33 per cent. Meanwhile, five-year results from a study of 5091 osteoporotic women found that the drug reduced the risk of vertebral fractures by 24 per cent, and caused a 15 per cent reduction in nonvertebral fractures. This five-year fracture reduction data is really exciting, as it is the first time any anti-osteoporotic treatment has demonstrated long-term benefit, over such a range of fractures, said consultant rheumatologist, Tim Spector.