UConn Researchers Enhance mRNA Vaccine Efficacy for Poultry

Researchers from the University of Connecticut’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources (CAHNR) and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) have unveiled a groundbreaking protein-based nanoparticle designed to enhance the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines against a major pathogen affecting chickens.

The Challenge of Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV)

The Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV), a rapidly spreading coronavirus, poses significant threats to poultry farmers across the globe, leading to millions in losses each year. Traditional vaccination methods largely rely on live attenuated or killed vaccines, which present numerous hurdles, including potential reactivation of the virus, mutation, and the creation of strains that may resist vaccines. Moreover, these vaccines often require adjuvants for effective immunization and have a limited shelf life.

An Innovative mRNA Vaccine Alternative

In response to these challenges, the research team has developed a novel mRNA IBV vaccine alternative. Unlike traditional vaccines, mRNA vaccines do not contain live viruses; instead, they encode the genetic blueprint for the virus’s spike protein, which provokes an immune response.

Stability Issues with mRNA Vaccines

Despite their advantages, mRNA vaccines face stability issues, necessitating temperature-controlled storage, which can be challenging on poultry farms. The research led by Professor Mazhar Khan and involved graduate students Anka Rao Kalluri and Aseno Sakhrie has resulted in a promising solution: a specially designed nanoparticle that protects the mRNA from rapid degradation.

A Breakthrough in Vaccine Delivery

This innovative nanoparticle, developed by the Kumar group, was the catalyst for the team’s exploration into mRNA vaccines before the COVID-19 pandemic. Using bovine serum albumin, a non-toxic, readily available protein, the researchers modified the particle’s surface with positively charged amine groups. This modification allows the particles to effectively stabilize and transport negatively charged mRNA into cells.

Promising Results and Future Directions

The research findings reveal a remarkable 1000-times increase in antibody levels against IBV in chickens vaccinated with the nanoparticle mRNA vaccine compared to an unvaccinated control group. Furthermore, the study showed an increase in immune cell activity among vaccinated chickens, indicating an overall enhancement in their immune defenses.

Revolutionizing Vaccination Techniques

In an effort to simplify the vaccination process, the researchers are exploring the possibility of administering the vaccine via spray, allowing for quicker and less stressful vaccination of large flocks.

Broader Implications for Vaccine Development

While IBV does not pose a threat to human health, the nanoparticle’s ability to stabilize mRNA vaccines could have far-reaching implications for human vaccine development. Researchers could swiftly design vaccines against emerging diseases by integrating specific genetic sequences into the nanoparticle framework.

Intellectual Property and Commercialization

UConn Technology Commercialization Services has filed a provisional patent for this pioneering nanoparticle technology. Michael A. Invernale, a senior licensing manager, is actively seeking industry partners to facilitate the transition of this innovation from the lab to practical applications.

Conclusion

The collaborative efforts of UConn researchers promise to revolutionize the poultry vaccination landscape, offering effective solutions against infectious diseases while also paving the way for advancements in human vaccine technology.

Source: University of Connecticut