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SAG-2 oral rabies vaccine
C L Schumacher1, P Coulon, F Lafay
1Virbac Laboratories, Biological Division R & D, Carros, France.
The Onderstepoort Journal of Veterinary Research
|December 1, 1993
Summary
The live-attenuated rabies virus vaccine strain SAG-2, developed through glycoprotein mutation, ensures genetic stability and safety in multiple animal species. Oral vaccination with SAG-2 effectively protected foxes and dogs against lethal rabies virus challenge.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Vaccine Development
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Rabies remains a significant zoonotic disease globally, necessitating effective vaccination strategies.
- Live attenuated rabies virus vaccines are crucial for wildlife rabies control, particularly in foxes and dogs.
- The rabies glycoprotein (RG) is a key target for vaccine development due to its role in viral entry and immunogenicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and characterization of a novel live attenuated rabies virus vaccine strain, SAG-2.
- To evaluate the genetic stability and apathogenicity of the SAG-2 strain in various animal models.
- To assess the efficacy of oral vaccination with SAG-2 in protecting foxes and dogs against rabies virus.
Main Methods:
- The SAG-2 strain was derived from the SADBerne strain through a two-step selection process using anti-rabies glycoprotein monoclonal antibodies.
- Site-directed mutagenesis was employed to alter two nucleotides at position 333 of the rabies glycoprotein gene, substituting arginine with glutamic acid.
- Genetic stability and apathogenicity were assessed in adult mice, foxes, cats, and dogs.
- Oral vaccination efficacy was evaluated by challenging vaccinated foxes and dogs with a lethal dose of rabies virus.
Main Results:
- The SAG-2 strain exhibited excellent genetic stability and was apathogenic in adult mice, foxes, cats, and dogs.
- The specific mutation at position 333 of the rabies glycoprotein was confirmed to be responsible for the attenuated phenotype.
- Oral administration of the SAG-2 vaccine conferred complete protection against a lethal rabies virus challenge in vaccinated foxes and dogs.
Conclusions:
- The SAG-2 live attenuated rabies virus vaccine strain demonstrates significant potential for rabies control in wildlife populations.
- The genetic modifications in SAG-2 result in a safe and effective vaccine with good oral delivery characteristics.
- SAG-2 represents a promising tool for the prevention of rabies in susceptible animal species, contributing to public health and animal welfare.