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Microalgae-based vaccines for aquaculture
Haohong Chen1, Jianguo Jiang2, Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro3
1School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China; Imperial College Centre for Synthetic Biology, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK; Bezos Centre for Sustainable Protein, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK; Engineering Biology Microbial Food Hub, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK; Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, SW7 2AZ, UK.
Trends in Biotechnology
|April 23, 2025
Summary
Microalgae-based oral vaccines enhance fish immunity and prevent disease in aquaculture. Future innovations in synthetic biology and fish immune metabolism will advance these sustainable vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Aquaculture
- Immunology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Aquaculture faces significant challenges from fish diseases, impacting sustainability and food security.
- Current disease control methods often rely on antibiotics, raising concerns about resistance and environmental impact.
- Microalgae offer a promising platform for developing sustainable oral vaccines to enhance fish health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce the rational design of vaccine antigens for microalgae-based oral delivery.
- To discuss the immune benefits and delivery mechanisms of microalgae as a vaccine vector.
- To highlight the potential of microalgae-based vaccines in sustainable aquaculture.
Main Methods:
- Rational design of vaccine antigens.
- Development of microalgae as oral delivery vehicles.
- Evaluation of immune responses and disease resistance in fish.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated successful design of vaccine antigens suitable for microalgae presentation.
- Showcased the potential of microalgae to deliver antigens effectively for oral vaccination.
- Highlighted significant enhancements in fish immunity and disease resistance.
Conclusions:
- Microalgae-based oral vaccines represent a sustainable strategy to improve fish health and reduce disease outbreaks in aquaculture.
- Advances in synthetic biology and fish immune metabolism are key drivers for future innovation in this field.
- This approach offers a viable alternative to traditional disease management practices, promoting a healthier aquaculture sector.
Keywords:
engineering biologyfish pathogen immunitymicroalgae-based vaccinesoral vaccine deliveryrational designsynthetic biologyMore Related Videos
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