T cell-based vaccines

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Survival curves of weanling mice immunized with LFn-LACV-Gc or LFn-LACV-N compared with LFn-ZIKV-NS3 and subsequently challenged with LACV

Invention Summary:

Novel T cell-based vaccine was developed by utilizing a fusion protein by binding a target protein or peptide molecule with transport factor derived from Bacteria. The target protein can act as an antigen, with a transport factor augmenting the antigen presentation to elicit increased T cell mediated immune response.

Rutgers researchers have developed a novel technology that involves the development of more robust T cell-based vaccines. They utilized the delivery of exogenous protein cargoes into the cell. The fusion proteins were designed by combining a modified transport factor derived from Bacillius sp toxin with target antigen comprising a protein fragment chosen according to the disease for which protection is desired. This method enhances the efficacy of treatment of various infectious diseases. This approach may also include a diagnostic kit to measure cell mediated immune response in vitro comprising a single or cocktail of proteins bound to Bacillus toxin. The method is validated by developing a vaccine against La crosse virus, a mosquito born virus for which no vaccine is currently available.

Market Applications:

• Vaccine development is used for treatment or augmenting the treatment of bacterial, viral, parasitic, fungal, or cancer therapies.
• Diagnostic kit may be developed to measure cell mediated response in vitro.
• Novel use of  fusion proteins to prevent La Crosse virus infection.

Advantages:

• Innovative fusion protein immunogens, better antigen presentation and strong T-cell mediated response. 
• Trains immune system to develop potent T-cell responses, which has been found to be an important protective mechanism against diseases
• Potential to prevent severe neuroinvasive disease in vulnerable populations
• First vaccine specifically targeting La Crosse virus

Publications:

Schuh T, Schultz J, Moelling K, Pavlovic J. DNA-Based Vaccine against La Crosse Virus: Protective Immune Response Mediated by Neutralizing Antibodies and CD4+ T Cells. Human Gene Therapy. 1999;10(10):1649-1658. doi:10.1089/10430349950017653

Intellectual Property & Development Status: PCT application filed. Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships, contact:  marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu