TOKYO – A biotechnology venture in Japan said Thursday it started research and development of a peptide vaccine against the coronavirus and has completed a patent application filing.

The vaccine could be effective in controlling the virus infection and suppressing the severe progression of COVID-19, the respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus, OncoTherapy Science Inc. said in a statement.

Read also – Ushio launches world’s 1st UV lamp that can safely kill coronavirus

Founded in 2001, OncoTherapy Science based in Kawasaki, Kanagawa Prefecture, has been working to develop cancer peptide vaccines and to provide a service for antigen-specific immune response analysis.

Read also – Daiichi Sankyo Co is in discussions to provide supplies of coronavirus vaccine