Novavax's AI & ML-Driven Drug Discovery Innovations in 2025 Q1

Update on Novavax's Use of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Drug Discovery

1. Integration of AI and Machine Learning in Early-Stage Pipeline Development:

• Novavax is actively advancing its early-stage pipeline programs with a capital-efficient approach, focusing on high-value opportunities within infectious diseases and beyond.
• Since the start of 2025, the company has initiated and advanced four early-stage programs targeting H5N1, RSV combinations, shingles, and C. difficile.
• These programs leverage translational models and artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to inform prioritization and accelerate discovery efforts.
• The use of AI/ML is specifically mentioned as part of a rigorous prioritization process to enhance structural stability, immunogenicity, and antigen design, particularly in the RSV combination vaccine candidate.

2. AI/ML-Enabled Technologies and Methods:

• Novavax employs structure-driven optimization enabled by AI and ML.
• Rapid antibody testing for epitope assessment and novel in vitro and in vivo models are used for rapid preclinical testing.
• These computational capabilities are expected to improve vaccine candidates by enhancing antigen design and combining multiple respiratory virus antigens with their Matrix-M adjuvant.

3. Pipeline and Research Focus Areas Supported by AI/ML:

• Early-stage programs include:
  • RSV combination vaccine leveraging superior protein antigen design and computational capabilities.
  • Shingles vaccine aiming for improved tolerability and reduced reactogenicity.
  • C. difficile vaccine development targeting a multivalent adjuvated vaccine with enhanced activity.
• The company is also exploring Matrix-M adjuvant enhancements and formulations using AI/ML to improve vaccine efficacy and tolerability.

4. Data Sharing and Future Milestones:

• Novavax plans to share initial data and early learnings from these AI/ML-supported early-stage programs in the second half of 2025 during an Investor Day.
• The company is generating rigorous preclinical data continuously, with results evolving frequently, reflecting the dynamic nature of AI/ML-driven research.

5. Broader R&D Strategy and Partnerships:

• The AI/ML efforts are part of a broader R&D strategy that includes translational research and computational medicine to inform investment decisions.
• Novavax is actively developing partnerships and collaborations to leverage its technology platform, including AI/ML capabilities, in infectious diseases and immuno-oncology.

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Summary Table of AI/ML Use in Novavax Drug Discovery

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Conclusion

Novavax is actively incorporating artificial intelligence and machine learning into its drug discovery and early-stage vaccine development efforts. These technologies are integral to their prioritization, antigen design, and preclinical testing processes, particularly for their four newly initiated early-stage programs. The company anticipates sharing more detailed data and insights on these AI/ML-enabled programs in the latter half of 2025, underscoring their commitment to leveraging computational tools to enhance vaccine innovation and value creation.