SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development and how Brazil is contributing

Area of Science:

• * Virology and Immunology
• * Vaccine Development and Biotechnology

Background:

• * The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic necessitates global scientific collaboration for rapid vaccine development.
• * Existing vaccine technologies for SARS, MERS, and influenza are being adapted for COVID-19.
• * Key challenges include the lack of established correlates of protection and the impact of vaccine formulation on immune response.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To review current SARS-CoV-2 vaccine development strategies.
• * To emphasize the importance of investigating a wide range of vaccine approaches.
• * To highlight Brazil's capacity and collaborative efforts in vaccine research.

Main Methods:

• * Review of existing and novel vaccine technologies.
• * Analysis of strategies including inactivated, attenuated, DNA, mRNA, and nanoparticle vaccines.
• * Examination of vaccine formulation impacts on immune responses.

Main Results:

• * Multiple vaccine candidates utilizing diverse technologies are under investigation.
• * No definitive correlates of protection for SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have been established.
• * Vaccine formulation significantly influences immune response and protective properties.

Conclusions:

• * A broad range of vaccine strategies must be pursued to ensure a safe, effective, and accessible COVID-19 vaccine.
• * Brazil's expertise and inter-institutional collaborations are vital for advancing vaccine development.
• * Established capabilities can address future health challenges, including neglected infectious diseases.