SK bioscience Initiates Global Phase 1/2 Trial for Universal Sarbecovirus Vaccine GBP511
SK bioscience has initiated a global Phase 1/2 clinical trial in Australia for GBP511, a next-generation vaccine candidate designed to target the sarbecovirus family.
Sarbecoviruses include SARS-CoV-2, its variants, and related SARS-like coronaviruses found in animals that may spill over to humans.
The goal: develop a universal vaccine capable of inducing broad immune protection across this entire virus family.
Why GBP511 is Different?
GBP511 is built to go beyond variant-specific COVID-19 vaccines.
SK bioscience aims to create a platform that:
Generates broad cross-reactive immune responses
Covers current and future sarbecoviruses
Supports long-term pandemic preparedness
This approach aligns with global calls for family-wide coronavirus vaccines rather than single-pathogen solutions.
Phase 1/2 Trial Design
The international study will enroll approximately 368 adults (≥18 years) in Australia.
Phase 1
Participants receive two doses, 28 days apart:
Low-, medium-, and high-dose cohorts
With or without adjuvant
Evaluations include:
Safety and tolerability
Immunogenicity
Comparisons with Comirnaty as a comparator vaccine
Phase 2
Based on Phase 1 results, the optimal dose and regimen will be selected.
Phase 2 will assess:
Immunogenicity and safety in adults and elderly populations
Comparisons with Comirnaty
Cross-reactive immune responses across the sarbecovirus family, including SARS-CoV-2
Technology Behind GBP511
GBP511 incorporates core technology from SKYCovione, SK bioscience’s recombinant protein-based COVID-19 vaccine commercialized in Korea in 2022.
Key components include:
Computer-designed antigen platform
Recombinant protein technology
Self-assembling nanoparticle design from the Institute for Protein Design (University of Washington)
SKYCovione demonstrated:
Robust neutralizing antibody responses
Favorable safety profile
Regulatory approvals in multiple countries
Strategic Importance
While many organizations are researching universal coronavirus vaccines, most programs remain in early discovery.
GBP511’s entry into global Phase 1/2 trials positions SK bioscience among the first to reach clinical development in this space.
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has identified the SARS-coronavirus family as a prototype pathogen, highlighting the high likelihood of future pandemics emerging from this group.
Market Outlook
The COVID-19 vaccine market is expected to shift toward sustained, long-term demand.
Estimated market size in 2025:USD 50.6 billion
Projected to reach USD 83.4 billion by 2032
CAGR (2025–2032):7.4%
Next-generation vaccines, including universal platforms, are expected to drive new growth.
Executive Perspectives
Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO, CEPI:
Broadly protective coronavirus vaccines have the power to change how the world confronts future outbreaks. The progression of SK bioscience’s vaccine into Phase 1/2 trials marks a major step forward and highlights South Korea’s leadership in vaccine innovation.
Jaeyong Ahn, CEO, SK bioscience:
Developing a universal sarbecovirus vaccine is a critical challenge for preparing for the next pandemic. With the initiation of the GBP511 trial, we aim to accelerate universal vaccine development and emerge as a global leader in the vaccine market.
Beyond GBP511
SK bioscience is also advancing:
A 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine
An avian influenza vaccine
The company plans to continue expanding its infectious disease pipeline to strengthen long-term global preparedness.