Sequoia Vaccines, Inc., established in 2012, is at the forefront of innovative vaccine development and pharmaceutical research.
This clinical-stage company is dedicated to tackling bacterial infections, pioneering solutions for antimicrobial resistance, and addressing other critical health challenges, including cancer and cystic fibrosis-related lung infections. With a mission to transform patient care, Sequoia Vaccines harnesses cutting-edge science and nature-inspired technology to develop novel compounds and therapies.
A holistic approach to innovation
Sequoia Vaccines’ success is guided by a leadership team with over a century of collective expertise in pharmaceutical research and development. This wealth of knowledge drives every stage of the process, from early discovery to global commercialisation.
Central to Sequoia’s methodology is the integration of advanced plant-based technologies. The company utilises state-of-the-art purification techniques to explore the vast potential of botanical compounds.
A partnership with the Missouri Botanical Garden enabled access to a diverse array of plant species, leading to the discovery of unique chemical scaffolds.
These breakthroughs set the stage for its ambitious efforts to combat bacterial infections, reduce antibiotic dependence, and develop cancer therapies. The early success of these programmes catalysed the launch of Sequoia’s vaccine research and development programme.
Addressing the global threat of antimicrobial resistance
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to withstand the effects of antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals, rendering these treatments ineffective. This phenomenon is fueled by the overuse and misuse of antibiotics and has become a major global health crisis.
The consequences of AMR are severe, including prolonged illnesses, higher medical costs, and increased mortality rates. Urgent action is needed to reduce antibiotic use and develop alternative strategies, such as vaccines, to prevent bacterial infections and slow the spread of resistance.
Sequoia’s role in combating AMR
Sequoia Vaccines is committed to addressing AMR by developing vaccines that reduce reliance on antibiotics. By focusing on prevention, Sequoia contributes to global efforts to curb the rise of multidrug-resistant bacteria.
Their research aligns with initiatives like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Antimicrobial Resistance Challenge, which emphasises innovation in vaccine development.
Groundbreaking vaccine development
Sequoia Vaccines’ flagship programme, SEQ-400, is a first-of-its-kind vaccine targeting recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), including those caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.
SEQ-400 has received FDA fast-track designation, underscoring its potential to revolutionise care for UTI sufferers. If approved, it could significantly reduce antibiotic use and improve the quality of life for patients.
Advancing cancer treatment
Sequoia’s SEQ-1274 programme focuses on an innovative microtubule inhibitor under development for treating ovarian and potentially other aggressive cancers.
This chemically synthesised molecule, derived from Sequoia Vaccines’ proprietary platform, has shown significant potential in preclinical studies.
SEQ-1274 binds to the colchicine-binding site on tubulin, disrupting the microtubule structures essential for cancer cell growth. This mechanism enables it to target and inhibit the proliferation of over 50 cancer cell lines, including ovarian, lung, breast, and uterine cancers.
Compared to paclitaxel, a standard microtubule inhibitor, SEQ-1274 has demonstrated up to 1,000 times greater potency in various cancer cell lines.
Innovative solutions for lung infections
Sequoia’s research into plant-derived compounds has led to the discovery of new classes of molecules that target lung infections associated with cystic fibrosis.
These compounds disrupt bacterial biofilms, a significant barrier in treating gram-negative bacteria. By refining and optimising these molecules, Sequoia is creating pathways to more effective treatments.
Shaping the future of healthcare
With a deep commitment to innovation and patient care, Sequoia Vaccines is reshaping the landscape of vaccine development. By addressing urgent health challenges like bacterial infections and antimicrobial resistance, the company is paving the way for a healthier future.
As Sequoia Vaccines continues to advance its programmes, the potential for transformative solutions in both infectious disease prevention and cancer therapy is vast. Through collaboration, cutting-edge science, and a focus on unmet medical needs, Sequoia is set to make a lasting impact on global health.
