SK bioscience has clinched a major funding boost to fast-track development of a next-generation RSV preventive therapy, sharpening its push into the global infectious disease market.

 

The company announced it has secured KRW 4 billion (approximately USD 3.0 million) — the maximum award available — after being selected for the Product Development Award (PDA) by the Research Investment for Global Health Technology Foundation. The funding will be used to accelerate a Phase 1b clinical trial of its monoclonal antibody candidate, RSM01, in infants.

 

RSM01, a preventive treatment targeting respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), was licensed earlier this month from the Gates Medical Research Institute. Originally designed by U.S. biotech firm Adimab in collaboration with Gates MRI, the candidate has already cleared early research and a Phase 1a clinical trial. SK bioscience will now take over development from Phase 1b through to potential commercialization.

 

The therapy is engineered to deliver season-long protection against RSV with a single dose in newborns and infants. Preclinical data showed strong suppression of viral infection and replication, including effectiveness against certain RSV strains that have shown reduced responsiveness to existing preventive options.

 

Under the licensing deal, SK bioscience has secured exclusive global supply rights, with limited exceptions in India and Gavi-eligible countries. The company is planning a dual-track strategy: driving commercial returns in high-income markets while scaling up manufacturing to supply affordable doses in lower-income regions, where the burden of RSV remains high.

 

RSV is a leading cause of severe lower respiratory infections in infants and young children worldwide, driving significant hospitalizations each year. According to Evaluate Pharma, the global RSV preventive antibody market is expected to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2032, with growth fueled by limited current options and expanding immunization programs.

 

Jinseon Park, COO of SK bioscience, said, "This funding agreement recognizes both the potential of the technology licensed from Gates MRI and our commitment to protecting global public health. By leveraging SK bioscience's world-class R&D and manufacturing capabilities, we will develop a globally competitive product."

 

Beyond RSV, SK bioscience is broadening its pipeline with next-generation pneumococcal vaccines, universal coronavirus vaccines, avian influenza vaccines, and mRNA-based platforms, as it builds an integrated end-to-end strategy spanning research, development, manufacturing, and global supply.

 

The latest funding underscores the company’s growing role in the race to develop scalable, globally accessible vaccines and biologics.