Technology ID
TAB-4909
Enhanced Immunogenicity via Alphavirus VLPs: A Novel Malaria Vaccine Strategy Targeting PfCSP Junctional Epitopes
E-Numbers
E-094-2021-0
Lead Inventor
Farney, S.
Lead IC
NIAID
Co-Inventors
Kwong, Peter
Francica, Joseph
Chauang, Gwo-yu
Ou, Li
Shi, Wei
Mascola, John
Seder, Robert
ICs
NIAID
Applications
Vaccines
Therapeutic Areas
Infectious Disease
Development Stages
Pre-clinical (in vivo)
Research Products
Animal Models
This technology entails a novel vaccine design against malaria, employing an alphavirus Virus-Like Particle (VLP) system to present a critical epitope from the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP). The vaccine targets the junctional region between the N-terminus and the central repeat domain of PfCSP, a segment previously identified as vital for generating protective immunity. The VLPs are engineered by fusing the PfCSP junctional region to components of the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV), maintaining structural integrity critical for immunogenicity, as confirmed by negative-stain electron microscopy.
Commercial Applications
This vaccine technology has the potential to revolutionize malaria prevention. Its application could be far-reaching, from being incorporated into global vaccination programs in malaria-endemic regions to serving as a travel vaccine for tourists and military personnel. Moreover, the underlying technology of using virus-like particles to present specific epitopes could be adapted to create vaccines for other parasitic diseases, thereby broadening its impact on global health. With its demonstrated pre-clinical success, this vaccine could be a critical tool in the worldwide effort to eradicate malaria.
Competitive Advantages
The competitive edge of this vaccine technology lies in its targeted approach to eliciting a robust immune response. By focusing on the junctional epitope of the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein (PfCSP), the vaccine offers a highly specific attack on a crucial stage of the malaria parasite's life cycle. The use of alphavirus Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) enables a structural mimicry that is superior to traditional vaccine carriers, enhancing the immune system's ability to recognize and remember the pathogen.
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