|
|
||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Variola virus, the most
virulent member of the genus Orthopoxvirus,
specifically infects humans and causes smallpox. Although smallpox was
eradicated in 1980, it remains a potential agent for bioterrorism. As a
category A biological weapon, its potential to devastate populations is a
concern. Moreover, despite the efficacy of a live vaccinia virus vaccine, the
level of toxicity is deemed unacceptably high due in part to the fact that a
live vaccine can be lethal to immunosuppressed individuals such as those with
HIV/AIDS, and that severe complications are also frequent when eczema
arepre-existing conditions of the vacine. Dartmouth researchers have now found that by combining a
replication-deficient modified vaccinia Ankara strain (MVA) of vaccinia virus
with a toll-like receptor (TLR) agonist, and optionally an agonistic
anti-CD40 monoclonal antibody, cytolytic T lymphocyte, IFN-gamma cytokine,
and neutralizing antiviral antibody responses to MVA can be enhanced. Given
the reduced toxicity and replication defective nature of the MVA, vaccines
can be developed to prevent or treat variola virus infection, or related
poxvirus infection, in healthy and immunosuppressed individuals or to
diminish viral pathogenesis. In
addition, the one-shot approach developed also allows for ring immunization
in response to a bioterrorist smallpox virus release. This technology is claimed in the
published United States Patent Application No. 11/519,408. We are seeking an industrial
partner interested in its commercialization. (Ref: J334) |
||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
«Technology Transfer Office : Sponsored Projects : Dartmouth College |
||
|
|
||||
|
|
||||
|
|
Phone: (603) 646-3027 |
|||
|
|
|
|
Fax: (603) 646-3670 |
|
