Powderject's 'first'

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
Updated:

 

Drugs group Powderject has claimed a 'world first' with the success of a trial using a DNA vaccine. Developed with Glaxo Wellcome, the vaccine proved effective in protecting 11 healthy volunteers against hepatitis B.

DNA vaccines are revolutionary because genes injected into human cells make the protein to provide protection. Normally the protein itself is injected. The DNA method is thought to be more effective.

Powderject, up 14p to 509p, has a needle-free technology which painlessly 'pops' the medication through the skin. The first vaccine is several years from the market. The group also hopes to launch a 'painless' version of the world's leading local anaesthetic in two years. Interim losses rose from £2.6m to £4.8m. Cash is £26m.

Most watched Money videos