The Need

Human norovirus (HuNoV) is a highly contagious and prevalent pathogen responsible for the majority of foodborne gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide. As HuNoV cannot be grown in cell cultures, developing an effective vaccine against it has proven challenging. Current vaccine studies using virus-like particles (VLPs) face limitations such as high dosage requirements, potential toxicity of adjuvants, and the need for multiple booster shots. Additionally, existing viral vectors for HuNoV vaccination may have safety concerns and limited efficacy.

The Technology

The present invention introduces a groundbreaking technology in the field of biotechnology, using recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) as a vector to express the major capsid protein of human norovirus. This innovation allows for the production of virus-like particles (VLPs) that closely resemble native virions. Importantly, the recombinant VSV displays attenuated virulence in mice while eliciting strong humoral, cellular, and mucosal immune responses.

Commercial Applications

1. Human Norovirus Vaccine: The technology enables the development of a highly effective vaccine against human norovirus, providing protection against this widespread foodborne pathogen.
2. Foodborne Virus Immunization: Beyond human norovirus, the VSV-based vector can be adapted to express major capsid proteins of other foodborne viruses, such as astrovirus, calicivirus, enteric adenovirus, parvovirus, hepatitis A virus, hepatitis E virus, rotavirus, and more.
3. Passive Immunization Pharmaceutical Composition: The technology can be utilized to produce pharmaceutical compositions for passive immunization of individuals in need of immediate protection against foodborne viruses.
4. Antibody Production: The VSV vector can be employed to generate antibodies against foodborne viruses, facilitating research, diagnostics, and potential therapeutic applications.

Benefits/Advantages

1. Highly Efficient Vaccine Production: The use of recombinant VSV as a vector streamlines the production of virus-like particles, reducing time and cost compared to traditional VLP-based approaches.
2. Broad Immunogenicity: The VSV-based vaccine elicits robust humoral, cellular, and mucosal immune responses, providing comprehensive protection against human norovirus and other foodborne viruses.
3. Safety and Efficacy: The attenuated virulence of recombinant VSV ensures enhanced safety, making it a viable vaccine candidate for human use with reduced risk.
4. Versatile Vector: Beyond human norovirus, the technology's adaptability allows for the delivery of various foodborne virus antigens, expanding its applications in immunization and research.
5. Potential for Passive Immunization: The technology's capability to produce pharmaceutical compositions for passive immunization may offer immediate protection to susceptible individuals.

In conclusion, the innovative use of recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus as a vector for human norovirus and other foodborne viruses presents a significant advancement in biotechnology, addressing the critical need for effective vaccines against these pathogens. Its safety, efficacy, and versatility make it a promising tool for immunization and research purposes, paving the way for a healthier and safer future.