Looking ahead, Penta is expanding its research horizon by strengthening the integration between basic science, translational research and clinical trials. Over recent years, the Foundation has worked with partners to progressively bridge the gap between early discovery and clinical application, building a research model capable of translating scientific innovation into tangible health solutions.
A key element of this evolution is the adoption of new methodological approaches, including the use of artificial intelligence and advanced computational systems. These tools are increasingly being used to optimise candidate molecules, support in‑silico experimentation and inform the design of innovative clinical trials. In 2026 Penta will establish a new Working Group within its Network governance to advance the responsible application of these approaches. The group will support improved predictive accuracy and the development of adaptive trial designs, helping to reduce the number of participants required for enrolment, while maintaining scientific robustness and ethical standards, an especially important consideration when research involves children and pregnant people.
The MALASSA project, submitted for funding under Horizon Europe, illustrates how this integrated, forward‑looking approach can be translated into practice. The project is designed as a virtuous cycle that spans the entire research pathway: from the identification of novel therapeutic targets and their in‑silico optimisation, through preclinical validation in vitro and in vivo, to early clinical testing and validation. The project will integrate AI‑driven molecular optimisation with preclinical and first‑in‑human clinical studies, with the aim not only to accelerate the development of innovative monoclonal antibody therapies, but also to establish a scalable and transferable model for responding to emerging infectious threats.
Through initiatives such as MALASSA, Penta is positioning itself at the intersection of scientific innovation, methodological advancement and public health impact. This integrated approach will be essential to strengthen research preparedness, reduce development timelines, and ensure that advanced therapeutic strategies can be developed and tested responsibly, efficiently and with global relevance.
In parallel, growing scientific interest is focusing on the development of mucosal vaccines, particularly against respiratory pathogens. By inducing immune responses directly at the site of pathogen entry, such as the respiratory mucosa, these approaches may reduce infection and transmission more effectively than traditional systemic vaccines. Although still under development for several pathogens, mucosal vaccine strategies represent a promising area of research for strengthening prevention of respiratory and emerging infectious diseases.
Scientific innovation must be accompanied by strong commitments to equitable access and sustainability. Vaccines and monoclonal antibodies will achieve their full public health impact only if affordability, equitable distribution and technology transfer are addressed, particularly in low‑ and middle‑income countries. Strengthening local manufacturing capacity, regulatory expertise and implementation infrastructures will be essential to translate innovation into durable health gains.
Preparing for future infectious threats requires sustained investment in research, collaboration and global solidarity. By advancing vaccines and monoclonal antibodies while ensuring that these tools reach those who need them most, including children, pregnant people and individuals with chronic or immunocompromising conditions, the global health community can build a more resilient and inclusive response to the infectious diseases of tomorrow.