Discovery and Development of Novel Plasmodial Surface Anion Channel (PSAC) Inhibitors as Potent Antimalarial Drug Leads

The technology involves the discovery and development of novel compounds that inhibit the plasmodial surface anion channel (PSAC), a promising drug target for malaria treatment. These compounds have been identified through high-throughput screening as specific and potent inhibitors of PSAC, effectively killing malaria parasite cultures by blocking nutrient acquisition from human plasma. Importantly, the compounds exhibit drug-like properties and show no cytotoxicity to other cells.

Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies Targeting the V1V2 Epitope of HIV-1 Env from CAPRISA Donor CAP 256: Therapeutic Potential and Preferential Clade A and Clade C Neutralization

This technology encompasses the discovery of broadly neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1, derived from the CAPRISA Donor CAP 256. These antibodies target the V1V2 epitope of the virus envelope and exhibit a high level of neutralization, particularly against Clade A and Clade C subtypes.

Enhanced Stability and Manufacturing of Ebola Virus Antibodies: Discovery of S1-4-A09 and its A80P Derivative from Survivor B-cells

The discovery of the S1-4-A09 antibody and its A80P derivative from a survivor of Ebola virus disease represents a significant advancement in the development of therapeutics against Ebola virus. These antibodies, isolated using innovative techniques, demonstrate potent antiviral activities in vitro and have shown improved stability and manufacturing feasibility compared to existing antibodies.

A Novel Approach to Enhancing Viral Envelope Protein Maturation Inhibition

The technology pertains to the development of furin-deficient Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells, specifically the CHO FD11 cell line, which plays a pivotal role in proteolytic maturation of various proteins critical for physiological processes and pathogen virulence. By inhibiting furin, a protease involved in the activation of many important proteins and pathogens, these modified cells provide a unique platform for research into viral infections and potential therapeutic interventions.

Development of Multivalent Peptide Tolerogen for Therapeutic Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis

The technology pertains to a novel multivalent peptide tolerogen designed for the therapeutic treatment of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), a condition where the immune system erroneously attacks the central nervous system. This advanced therapeutic strategy involves a fusion-peptide composed of myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG), myelin-basic protein (MBP), and myelin proteolipid protein (PLP), along with myelin-associated glycoprotein (MAG).

Enhancing Immunogenicity and Protection in Calves

The discovery outlined in the Employee Discovery and Invention Report represents a significant advancement in veterinary vaccine technology, specifically targeting the bovine respiratory syncytial virus (bRSV). This innovation involves a "DS2" version of the bRSV F vaccine, which has been engineered to enhance immunogenicity through a prefusion-stabilized form of the F protein, absent of the fusion peptide and reinforced by cavity-filling mutations and inter-protomer disulfides.

A Novel, GMP-Compliant Method for Pathogenesis and Vaccine Development Studies

The technology involves a laboratory-derived version of the 2009 pandemic H1N1 virus, produced under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) to ensure safety and reproducibility for human studies. It's designed for use in controlled research settings to advance our understanding of influenza pathogenesis and to assess the efficacy of vaccines and drugs.

Development of Messenger RNA (mRNA) Vaccines Targeting SARS-CoV-2 Antigens

The development of mRNA vaccines targeting SARS-CoV-2 antigens represents a groundbreaking advancement in vaccine technology. These vaccines, currently in Clinical Phase I, utilize messenger RNA to encode coronavirus antigens, triggering a potent immune response that includes the production of neutralizing antibodies. Unlike traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines do not use live or inactivated viruses, which enhances safety and allows for rapid development.