Needle-free HIV vaccine study begins with Immuno Cure, PharmaJet

• Immuno Cure and PharmaJet to assess needle-free delivery of HIV DNA vaccine ICVAX
• Study to be conducted at Prince of Wales Hospital, led by CUHK's Prof. Grace Lui
• Supported by HKSAR Government Public Sector Trial Scheme

Immuno Cure BioTech, located in Hong Kong Science Park, has formed a partnership with PharmaJet to assess the safety and immunogenicity of ICVAX, Immuno Cure's HIV therapeutic DNA vaccine, given in combination with PharmaJet's needle-free Tropis device. On June 16, 2025, the partnership was formalized with a material transfer agreement signed during BIO 2025 in Boston. 

ICVAX uses Immuno Cure's patented PD-1-Enhanced DNA Vaccine technology to achieve sustained, ART-free virological control of HIV-1 following a successful Phase I trial with powerful safety and immunogenic response.  The new clinical study will take place at Prince of Wales Hospital in Hong Kong, and led by Professor Grace Lui of CUHK. The study is a collaborative effort of Immuno Cure, CUHK and the AIDS Institute at the University of Hong Kong and is being funded by the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government. Professor Zhiwei Chen from the AIDS Institute is the Project Coordinator for the clinical study. 

The Tropis device, which is prequalified by the WHO, allows for precise intradermal delivery which enhances patient experience and provides precision in the drug's delivery without the use of needles or any special expertise. 

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Dr. Xia JIN, CEO of Immuno Cure, said "We are thrilled to partner with PharmaJet on this innovative delivery approach to HIV treatment. This collaboration not only advances needle-free vaccination solutions but also accelerates the global commercialization potential for ICVAX and the vaccine's ability to transform HIV management."