hVIVO plc (AIM: HVO), a contract research organisation specialising in infectious and respiratory disease trials, announced on Monday that it has completed a successful pilot characterisation study for its human metapneumovirus (hMPV) challenge model.

Conducted at its advanced quarantine facility in Canary Wharf, the study demonstrated a strong infectivity rate and symptomatic disease in healthy volunteers, confirming the feasibility of the hMPV model for testing vaccines and antivirals.

The company is now marketing its hMPV challenge model, targeting future human challenge trials to support the development of much-needed treatments for hMPV. Plans are underway to complete the characterisation study with a partner.

Dr Andrew Catchpole, Chief Scientific Officer at hVIVO, will present findings from the pilot study at the 13th International RSV Symposium in Brazil from 12-15 March 2025.

hVIVO operates the world's largest commercial human challenge trial facility in London and provides an end-to-end suite of services, including drug development consultancy, challenge agent manufacturing, and specialised virology and immunology testing through its Venn Life Sciences and hLAB brands.

Human metapneumovirus is a prevalent respiratory pathogen causing symptoms similar to the common cold but can lead to severe complications, including pneumonia and bronchiolitis, particularly in young children. Despite its global impact, there are currently no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for hMPV.