"The synergistic attributes of this partnership are powerful," commented Dr. Joseph Bruder, GenVec's Director of Vector and Vaccine Programs. "The partnership combines the latest in malaria antigen optimization with GenVec's advanced adenovector delivery technology," he concluded.

Dr. Denise Doolan, Head of Pre-Clinical Research and Development at the NMRC Malaria Program echoed Dr. Bruder's comments, "NMRC is very pleased to be working with GenVec and MVI on the development of 'next generation' malaria vaccines. This is a natural follow-on to NMRC's molecular vaccine development program and represents a unique partnership of government, industry, and the public-sector."

Malaria is a life-threatening disease transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Malaria parasites initially invade liver cells, multiply, and release tens of thousands of new parasites. These new parasites invade red blood cells and multiply again, destroying the cells. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, and vomiting appear 9 to 14 days after the infectious bite. If untreated, the infection can progress rapidly and become life threatening, resulting in severe anemia, coma, and death. Malaria causes more than 300 million acute illnesses and over one million deaths annually, mostly among children under the age of five. Malaria is also a major health risk for travelers and the military.

'"/>

Contact: Ellen Wilson
301-652-1558 x108
Burness Communications
31-Mar-2004