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Repurposing the oncolytic virus VSV∆51M as a COVID-19 vaccine
Almohanad A Alkayyal1,2, Manar Darwish2, Reham Ajina2,3
1Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, University of Tabuk, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia.
Abstract:
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic imposes an urgent and continued need for the development of safe and cost-effective vaccines to induce preventive responses for limiting major outbreaks around the world. To combat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), we repurposed the VSV∆51M oncolytic virus platform to express the spike receptor-binding domain (RBD) antigen. In this study, we report the development and characterization of the VSV∆51M-RBD vaccine. Our findings demonstrate successful expression of the RBD gene by the VSV∆51M-RBD virus, inducing anti-RBD responses without attenuating the virus. Moreover, the VSV∆51M-RBD vaccine exhibited safety, immunogenicity, and the potential to serve as a safe and effective alternative or complementary platform to current COVID-19 vaccines.
Insights
A novel COVID-19 vaccine was developed using a modified oncolytic virus platform expressing the SARS-CoV-2 spike RBD. This VSV∆51M-RBD vaccine is safe, immunogenic, and shows potential as a complementary COVID-19 vaccine.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Vaccinology
- Oncolytic Virotherapy
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitates the development of safe, cost-effective vaccines.
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) requires innovative vaccine strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize a novel vaccine candidate for COVID-19.
- To repurpose the VSV∆51M oncolytic virus platform for vaccine development.
Main Methods:
- Engineering the VSV∆51M oncolytic virus to express the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain (RBD).
- Characterization of the VSV∆51M-RBD vaccine candidate for safety and immunogenicity.
Main Results:
- Successful expression of the RBD gene by the VSV∆51M-RBD virus.
- Induction of anti-RBD immune responses without viral attenuation.
- Demonstrated safety and immunogenicity of the VSV∆51M-RBD vaccine.
Conclusions:
- The VSV∆51M-RBD vaccine is a safe and immunogenic candidate.
- This platform offers a potential alternative or complementary approach to existing COVID-19 vaccines.
