RQ Biotechnology

Influenza continues to pose a global threat, and seasonal evolution undermines vaccine effectiveness. The greatest impact falls on newborns, the elderly, and patients with weakened immunity, who can’t always respond well to seasonal vaccines.

RQ Biotechnology is developing RQB01, a single-dose antibody designed to last a whole flu season. Its dual mechanism holds up against seasonal variation, giving high-risk and immunocompromised patients reliable protection without relying on existing vaccines.

Founded in 2021 on Oxford antibody research, RQ Bio is led by Professors Screaton and Kellam, Osbourn OBE and CEO Westby. In 2022 it out-licensed an asset to AstraZeneca for up to $157m plus royalties, now approved as Kavigale (sipavibart).