News
Phase I Clinical Study of Therapeutic DNA Vaccine for HIV in Hong Kong

26 January 2026

Event Date(s)/Period(s)
26 Jan 2026
 
Organised by:
HKU AIDS Institute

A Phase I clinical study of ICVAX, a therapeutic DNA vaccine for HIV, was initiated in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine of The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CU Medicine), the AIDS Institute of the University of Hong Kong (HKU AIDS Institute), and the Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trials Center (BAY TRIAL). ICVAX is a patented ‘PD-1-Enhanced DNA Vaccine Technology Platform’, whose aim is to achieve sustained, immune-mediated HIV-1 virological control without the need of antiretroviral therapy. Following a successful first-in-human ICVAX Phase I clinical trial in Shenzhen, which showed exceptional safety and immunogenicity profiles, this clinical study will explore the safety and immunogenicity of ICVAX in HIV-infected volunteers in Hong Kong, utilising three distinct delivery systems. This comparative approach will provide essential data on the optimal delivery method for ICVAX, potentially identifying the most effective, patient-friendly and scalable options for improving immunotherapeutic responses in individuals living with HIV.