|
- Global phase 1/2 clinical trial initiated for GBP511, a vaccine targeting the Sarbecovirus Family
- Next-generation vaccine leveraging SKYCovione's recombinant protein-based platform and nanoparticle technology
- SK bioscience will continue to strengthen a Mid- to Long-Term global vaccine strategy centered on universal vaccines for future pandemic preparedness
INCHEON, South Korea, Jan. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SK bioscience announced the initiation of a global Phase 1/2 clinical trial in Australia for GBP511, a vaccine candidate targeting the sarbecovirus subgenus.
Sarbecoviruses are a higher-level coronavirus group that include SARS-CoV-2, encompassing not only currently circulating variants but also potential future novel coronaviruses related SARS-like coronaviruses found in animals that could potentially spill over to humans." Or even just, "related SARS-like coronaviruses found in animals.
SK bioscience aims to develop a universal vaccine capable of inducing broad immune responses across the entire virus family and is establishing a platform applicable to multiple related viruses and variants.
The international Phase 1/2 trial of GBP511 will be conducted in approximately 368 adults aged 18 years and older in Australia. In Phase 1, participants will receive two doses administered 28 days apart, across low-, medium-, and high-dose cohorts, with or without an adjuvant. Safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity will be evaluated, including comparisons with Comirnaty, a comparator vaccine. Based on Phase 1 results, the optimal dose and regimen will be selected, after which Phase 2 will assess immunogenicity and safety in adult and elderly populations, again comparing the investigational vaccine with Comirnaty, a comparator vaccine. In addition, the study will evaluate cross-reactive immune responses across the sarbecovirus family, including SARS-CoV-2, to assess the vaccine's potential as a universal coronavirus vaccine.
GBP511 incorporates the core technology of of SKYCovione, which in 2022 became the only domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine in Korea to achieve commercialization. Building on SKYCovione's computer-designed antigen platform, GBP511 combines SK bioscience's recombinant protein technology with self-assembling nanoparticle design technology developed by the Institute for Protein Design (IPD) at the University of Washington School of Medicine. SKYCovione has previously demonstrated robust immunogenicity and a favorable safety profile through global clinical trials. SKYCovione demonstrated the induction of robust protective neutralizing antibody levels and a favorable safety profile through global clinical trials, which was the basis of the vaccine's approval by several regulatory authorities.
Globally, while multiple companies and research institutions have initiated efforts to develop universal coronavirus vaccines, most programs remain at an early research stage.
SK bioscience's entry into global Phase 1/2 clinical development is the first such vaccine to enter clinical trials, demonstrating a comparatively rapid pace of development.
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has designated the SARS-coronavirus family as a "prototype pathogen," noting the high likelihood that future pandemics may repeatedly arise from the same viral family. CEPI has consistently emphasized the limitations of variant- or pathogen-specific approaches and highlighted the need for universal coronavirus vaccines capable of providing broad protection regardless of the emergence of novel viruses. CEPI is supporting the development of broadly protective coronavirus vaccines, which could potentially provide broad protection against the Betacoronavirus family, which includes SARS and MERS.
Major international journals, including Nature Reviews Immunology and The Lancet Microbe, have likewise reported that universal sarbecovirus vaccines capable of delivering both broad cross-neutralizing activity and durable immune protection could become a cornerstone of future pandemic preparedness strategies.
Against this backdrop, the COVID-19 vaccine market is expected to transition from short-term outbreak-driven demand to sustained mid- to long-term growth. According to global market research firm Coherent Market Insights, the global COVID-19 vaccine market is estimated at approximately USD 50.6 billion (KRW 70 trillion) in 2025 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.4% from 2025 to 2032, reaching approximately USD 83.4 billion (KRW 117 trillion) by 2032. Next-generation technologies, such as universal vaccines, are expected to generate new sources of market demand.
Dr Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI said, "COVID 19 exposed the devastating price of confronting a deadly new virus without a vaccine. Broadly protective coronavirus vaccines have the power to change that story. While we cannot predict when or where the next coronavirus threat will emerge, we can prepare. By investing now in all in one vaccines, CEPI and its partners are strengthening global defences—and South Korea is playing a pivotal role in that effort. The progression of SK bioscience's broadly protective coronavirus vaccine into Phase 1/2 trials marks a major step forward, showcasing South Korea's leadership in cutting-edge vaccine innovation and bringing us closer to a safer future for all."
Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience said "Developing a universal sarbecovirus vaccine is a critical challenge that must be addressed to prepare for the next pandemic." "With the initiation of the GBP511 clinical trial, we will accelerate the development of universal vaccines and leverage our proactive infectious disease preparedness capabilities to emerge as a global leader in the vaccine market."
SK bioscience continues to advance a range of infectious disease pipelines, including a 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and an avian influenza vaccine. The company plans to progressively expand its vaccine portfolio to strengthen mid- to long-term preparedness for future infectious disease threats.
About SK bioscience
SK bioscience is an innovative vaccine and biotech company, committed to vaccine development and manufacturing to enable more equitable access to vaccines around the world. Leveraging strengths on cutting-edge technologies, SK bioscience has been dedicated to promoting human health from prevention to cure across the globe. With the cooperation of domestic and international governments, regulatory agencies, healthcare providers, doctors, and medical experts, all of the SK colleagues are passionately committed to providing high-quality vaccines to those who need them and better public healthcare solutions.
SK bioscience Communications Team
Changhyun Jin (jin99@sk.com)
Tae-Gyun Kim (taegyunkim@sk.com)
Moonchel Kim (mc_kim@sk.com)
- Global phase 1/2 clinical trial initiated for GBP511, a vaccine targeting the Sarbecovirus Family
- Next-generation vaccine leveraging SKYCovione's recombinant protein-based platform and nanoparticle technology
- SK bioscience will continue to strengthen a Mid- to Long-Term global vaccine strategy centered on universal vaccines for future pandemic preparedness
INCHEON, South Korea, Jan. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- SK bioscience announced the initiation of a global Phase 1/2 clinical trial in Australia for GBP511, a vaccine candidate targeting the sarbecovirus subgenus.
Sarbecoviruses are a higher-level coronavirus group that include SARS-CoV-2, encompassing not only currently circulating variants but also potential future novel coronaviruses related SARS-like coronaviruses found in animals that could potentially spill over to humans." Or even just, "related SARS-like coronaviruses found in animals.
SK bioscience aims to develop a universal vaccine capable of inducing broad immune responses across the entire virus family and is establishing a platform applicable to multiple related viruses and variants.
The international Phase 1/2 trial of GBP511 will be conducted in approximately 368 adults aged 18 years and older in Australia. In Phase 1, participants will receive two doses administered 28 days apart, across low-, medium-, and high-dose cohorts, with or without an adjuvant. Safety, tolerability, and immunogenicity will be evaluated, including comparisons with Comirnaty, a comparator vaccine. Based on Phase 1 results, the optimal dose and regimen will be selected, after which Phase 2 will assess immunogenicity and safety in adult and elderly populations, again comparing the investigational vaccine with Comirnaty, a comparator vaccine. In addition, the study will evaluate cross-reactive immune responses across the sarbecovirus family, including SARS-CoV-2, to assess the vaccine's potential as a universal coronavirus vaccine.
GBP511 incorporates the core technology of of SKYCovione, which in 2022 became the only domestically developed COVID-19 vaccine in Korea to achieve commercialization. Building on SKYCovione's computer-designed antigen platform, GBP511 combines SK bioscience's recombinant protein technology with self-assembling nanoparticle design technology developed by the Institute for Protein Design (IPD) at the University of Washington School of Medicine. SKYCovione has previously demonstrated robust immunogenicity and a favorable safety profile through global clinical trials. SKYCovione demonstrated the induction of robust protective neutralizing antibody levels and a favorable safety profile through global clinical trials, which was the basis of the vaccine's approval by several regulatory authorities.
Globally, while multiple companies and research institutions have initiated efforts to develop universal coronavirus vaccines, most programs remain at an early research stage.
SK bioscience's entry into global Phase 1/2 clinical development is the first such vaccine to enter clinical trials, demonstrating a comparatively rapid pace of development.
The Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) has designated the SARS-coronavirus family as a "prototype pathogen," noting the high likelihood that future pandemics may repeatedly arise from the same viral family. CEPI has consistently emphasized the limitations of variant- or pathogen-specific approaches and highlighted the need for universal coronavirus vaccines capable of providing broad protection regardless of the emergence of novel viruses. CEPI is supporting the development of broadly protective coronavirus vaccines, which could potentially provide broad protection against the Betacoronavirus family, which includes SARS and MERS.
Major international journals, including Nature Reviews Immunology and The Lancet Microbe, have likewise reported that universal sarbecovirus vaccines capable of delivering both broad cross-neutralizing activity and durable immune protection could become a cornerstone of future pandemic preparedness strategies.
Against this backdrop, the COVID-19 vaccine market is expected to transition from short-term outbreak-driven demand to sustained mid- to long-term growth. According to global market research firm Coherent Market Insights, the global COVID-19 vaccine market is estimated at approximately USD 50.6 billion (KRW 70 trillion) in 2025 and is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 7.4% from 2025 to 2032, reaching approximately USD 83.4 billion (KRW 117 trillion) by 2032. Next-generation technologies, such as universal vaccines, are expected to generate new sources of market demand.
Dr Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI said, "COVID 19 exposed the devastating price of confronting a deadly new virus without a vaccine. Broadly protective coronavirus vaccines have the power to change that story. While we cannot predict when or where the next coronavirus threat will emerge, we can prepare. By investing now in all in one vaccines, CEPI and its partners are strengthening global defences—and South Korea is playing a pivotal role in that effort. The progression of SK bioscience's broadly protective coronavirus vaccine into Phase 1/2 trials marks a major step forward, showcasing South Korea's leadership in cutting-edge vaccine innovation and bringing us closer to a safer future for all."
Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience said "Developing a universal sarbecovirus vaccine is a critical challenge that must be addressed to prepare for the next pandemic." "With the initiation of the GBP511 clinical trial, we will accelerate the development of universal vaccines and leverage our proactive infectious disease preparedness capabilities to emerge as a global leader in the vaccine market."
SK bioscience continues to advance a range of infectious disease pipelines, including a 21-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and an avian influenza vaccine. The company plans to progressively expand its vaccine portfolio to strengthen mid- to long-term preparedness for future infectious disease threats.
About SK bioscience
SK bioscience is an innovative vaccine and biotech company, committed to vaccine development and manufacturing to enable more equitable access to vaccines around the world. Leveraging strengths on cutting-edge technologies, SK bioscience has been dedicated to promoting human health from prevention to cure across the globe. With the cooperation of domestic and international governments, regulatory agencies, healthcare providers, doctors, and medical experts, all of the SK colleagues are passionately committed to providing high-quality vaccines to those who need them and better public healthcare solutions.
SK bioscience Communications Team
Changhyun Jin (jin99@sk.com)
Tae-Gyun Kim (taegyunkim@sk.com)
Moonchel Kim (mc_kim@sk.com)
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
SK bioscience Initiates International Phase 1/2 Clinical Trial of Universal Vaccine Candidate Targeting Sarbecovirus Family
SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Most simulation pipelines can model facilities, equipment, and routing with high accuracy—but often miss a key driver of real-world performance: human operations. Operator cycle-time variation, work sequence differences, and station placement/material flow can materially impact throughput and safety, yet human behavior is still commonly simplified into idealized paths.
Reallusion has been closing that gap through years of collaboration with enterprise teams and world-class brands—building a simulation-ready, real-time stack designed to replicate real-world scenarios with believable, repeatable human operations.
With the latest launch of Motion Planning, Reallusion connects everything it has built into a complete simulation workflow. It adds a modular, scalable logic layer that links people, actions, and environments—so teams can run large-scale, human-centric simulations that are logical, repeatable, and easy to validate.
Check out the full trailer
A Complete Simulation Solution for Replicating the Real World
Reallusion provides a connected set of tools that scale from individual human actions to system-level, repeatable simulation logic:
1) Control an individual human's actions
- Motion Director: control characters in real-time with motion triggers and behavior controls for responsive, natural actions.
- Personal Mobility: recreate how people travel with different transport devices, capturing natural speed, spacing, and movement patterns for pedestrian and mobility scenarios. For example, an operator pushing a trolley
2) Control groups and movement at scale
- Crowd Sim: create crowd movement, density, and flow for large-scale scenarios.
3) Simulate human interaction with tools and the environment
- Prop Interaction: simulate task-level interactions with equipment, stations, and objects (operate, pick/place, handle).
- Smart Accessory: built-in rules assign the right tools (and variations) to the right people at scale for realistic working conditions.
4) Build the environment context
- BuildingGen: generate buildings, interiors, warehouses, and production lines quickly from customizable blueprints and packaged modules to stand up a layout context for scenario testing.
- Prop Distribution: place and standardize assets across scenes for consistent, repeatable setups.
5) Orchestrate everything with modular logic at scale
- Motion Planning: connect workflows across areas with modular, reusable logic—so you can run large scenarios with hundreds of people, repeatedly.
The Industry's Largest Asset Ecosystem for Any Simulation Scenario
Reallusion's solution is supported by the largest asset ecosystem in the industry—led by ActorCore, which provides premium simulation-ready digital humans, props, and motion assets for operational workflows. Combined with Reallusion's Content Store and Marketplace for additional props and environments, teams can stand up scenarios faster, standardize assets across repeated runs, and adapt to different sites and industries—without spending cycles building everything from scratch.
With assets spanning a wide range of use cases—from factory operations and facility planning to driving and public-space scenarios—teams can quickly find the right people, equipment, and motions for the simulation they need.
What's New: Motion Planning Makes Simulation Modular and Scalable
Motion Planning is a major step forward because it turns simulations into reusable systems, not one-off scenes. At its core is an intuitive node-graph workflow that makes simulation logic visual and easy to manage—so teams can build, review, and expand behaviors without getting buried in scripting.
With Motion Planning, teams can:
- Reuse modular building blocks: assemble scenarios fast and standardize proven setups
- Connect multiple areas into one flow: link zones, lines, and routes into a continuous simulation
- Iterate and compare changes quickly: test layout/process updates and run repeatable before/after comparisons
- Scale without losing control: expand to higher-volume runs while keeping logic consistent and maintainable
- Validate with measurable feedback: use logs and on-screen indicators for real-time review and analysis
In short, Motion Planning adds a visual, modular layer that helps teams iterate faster, stay organized as projects grow, and scale simulations with confidence.
Capture Real-World Human Operations with Video Mocap
To increase fidelity and enable flexible customization, the newly released Video Mocap turns standard video footage of real operations into editable 3D motion. It's a practical way to capture actual operator work sequences and cycle times—using ordinary cameras, without specialized motion-capture hardware—so teams can simulate more realistic handling, walk paths, and handoffs for more credible validation and comparison.
Proven Across Industries
Reallusion's human-centric simulation solution has been adopted across digital twins, AV simulation, security and surveillance, consumer electronics, and pedestrian traffic—by teams at brands including NVIDIA, Google, Samsung, LG, BMW, Ford, Toyota, Hyundai, GM, Motorola, and Axis Communications.
Building on that foundation, the latest Motion Planning and Video Mocap updates have also been evaluated with industry partners: Delta Electronics and Foxconn—global industrial leaders in electronics and manufacturing—used the workflow to support plant planning, while relative.berlin—a Berlin-based CG/AI studio known for immersive (VR/AR) experiences—evaluated it through a VR immersive experience project for the German government.
Integration-Ready for Digital Twin Pipelines
For teams building in existing digital twin projects, Reallusion also supports smooth downstream USD workflows to NVIDIA Omniverse (and other DCC/real-time tools).digital humans, props, lights, and cameras can be transferred efficiently—supporting collaboration, review, and optimization in the environments many digital twin teams already use.
Reallusion's Vision for Simulations
Reallusion delivers the most realistic human factors available for simulation, so digital twins and operational models can reflect how people actually work in the real world. From subtle individual behavior to large-scale operational scenarios, Reallusion's system combines human realism with modular, logic-driven workflows—helping teams replicate real operations as closely as possible, from quick what-if studies to scalable, validation-ready simulation runs across industries and use cases.
Book a live demo with Reallusion's team
Resources for Faster Industrial Setup
In practice, scaling human-centric simulation depends on reusable modules and interactions that teams can standardize across scenarios. Alongside the free starter content included in iClone, Reallusion provides Motion Planning content packs that accelerate industrial scenario buildout and offer consistent starting points:
Ready-made factory scenarios: 12 factory scenarios (Assembly, Production, Transport, Maintenance, Inspection, and more), plus 25 interactive machines/tools and 73 worker action motions—so teams can assemble, modify, and test factory workflows faster without building everything from scratch.
Interactive industrial devices: 15 interactive devices (valves, levers, control panels, and more) that digital humans can operate precisely—enabling realistic, orderly interactions with factory equipment for more credible industrial simulations.
These resources help teams move from proof-of-concept to repeatable scenarios faster—without having to author every template and interaction from scratch.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Reallusion Expands to a Complete Human-Centric Simulation Solution
