Development of antibodies and antibody-derived proteins for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases with epidemic potential

The main goal of this opportunity is to support efforts that help prevent and treat infectious diseases with the potential to cause epidemics. It aims to give scientists and clinicians better tools and knowledge for developing preventive and therapeutic solutions beyond standard antiviral drugs. The program focuses on innovative approaches in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, as well as strengthening healthcare systems and improving preparedness for health emergencies. Activities should help reduce the burden of disease and support rapid responses during outbreaks. International cooperation is encouraged, especially in regions where targeted viruses are present or have caused recent outbreaks.

• Develop and test antibodies or antibody-derived proteins targeting emerging or re-emerging viruses of epidemic potential.

• Advance existing candidate molecules through in vitro characterization (specificity, epitope recognition, mechanism of viral neutralization).

• Conduct in vivo efficacy testing in relevant animal models (including humanized or primate models if needed) to demonstrate protection.

• Produce at least one GMP-quality batch within EU/EEA to enable clinical translation.

• Initiate first-in-human safety trials, supported by a clear regulatory strategy; consider biological and social diversity (age, sex, ethnicity, disability) in clinical design.

• Evaluate feasibility for affordable and scalable production and distribution in epidemic response scenarios.

Examples:

• A project developing a new antibody therapy for a re-emerging viral infection in Africa that collaborates with local research centers.
• An initiative led by a US-based university to create rapid diagnostic tools using antibody-derived proteins for use during outbreaks.
• A multi-country collaboration testing a preventive antibody treatment in regions recently affected by a viral epidemic.

• Personnel costs for researchers and support staff
• Costs for laboratory supplies and materials
• Equipment purchase or rental needed for the project
• Clinical trial costs, including participant recruitment and follow-up
• Costs for data collection, management, and analysis
• Travel and accommodation for project-related activities
• Subcontracting of specialized services essential to the project
• Costs for networking and dissemination activities
• Fees for using research infrastructures
• Project management and administrative expenses

All eligible costs are covered as a lump sum. Restrictions or further details may apply as described in the Horizon Europe guidelines.

• Budget for this Call: 50.000.000€
• Number of Grants attributed: 5
• Budget per project: 10.000.000€

• Applicants must be legal entities established in an eligible EU country, including the United States.
• Projects should involve organizations or partnerships that match the scope of the opportunity.
• Applicants must follow the specific requirements and templates provided in the Work Programme.
• Proposals must include detailed plans for clinical studies if applicable.
• Applicants should engage with relevant regulatory bodies as required.
• Entities considered high-risk suppliers of mobile network equipment are excluded from certain topics.
• Applicants must use state-of-the-art research infrastructures where necessary.