GenoFocus, Inc. has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with OptiPharm Co Ltd, HuVet bio Inc, Y-Biologics Inc, Binex Co Ltd, GenNBio Inc, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Yonsei University Molecular Design Research Institute and International Vaccine Institute, for the joint development of a Covid-19 mucosal immune vaccine. In general, vaccines block pathogens by injecting antigens (caused pathogens or related substances) by injection to induce the production of IgG (immunoglobulin G) neutralizing antibodies corresponding to the pathogens. This means that the immune system in the human body undergoes a 'mock war against pathogens', creating neutralizing antibodies that counteract the invasion of pathogens.

On the other hand, mucosal immunity vaccines developed by GenoFocus not only induce the pathogen-specific IgG neutralizing antibody, which is the existing vaccine principle, but also take one step further, the primary barrier in the body (oral), nose (nasal), etc. Induces IgA neutralizing antibodies secreted by mucous membranes. In addition, it further induces innate immune responses that act non-specifically on various pathogens.

Research institutes participating in the consortium are planning to accelerate the fight against Covid-19 by gathering various capabilities. GenoFocus focuses on producing antigenic proteins based on microbial display technology that has been developed for 20 years. Spores coated with an antigen protein can effectively deliver the antigen to immune cells in the mucous membrane and activate T cells, thereby enhancing the overall human immunity.

Previously, the mucosal immunity vaccine of GenoFocus has been highly rated to be designated as the 'National Designated Lab (NRL)', which is a key technology strategically fostered by the government.