The aim of the project is to devise strategies for rapid vaccine development in response to new and emerging infectious diseases. The project therefore developed platforms for rapid identification and production of viral domains that can be used as veterinary vaccines. They also serve as a starting point for the generation of efficient and protective antibodies to protect animals and the human population. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), Schmallenberg virus (SBV), and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been used as model viruses. Focusing on RVFV, INNT is involved in several work packages in cooperation with other project partners. Relevant virus domains were first identified by modern in silico analyses. Selected domains were subsequently produced in different expression systems on one hand as vaccine candidates and on the other hand as antigens for the production of virus neutralizing antibodies. As part of the efficacy testing of the vaccines obtained in this way, challenge experiments were carried out at INNT in mouse and sheep models with the best vaccine and antibody candidates.
Further information can be found on the project page:
https://www.imi.europa.eu/projects-results/project-factsheets/zapi
Involved INNT scientists:
Dr. Markus Keller
Dr. Martin Eiden
Prof. Dr. Martin H. Groschup
Dr. Benjamin Gutjahr (PostDoc)