BCG as a non-specific vaccine for avian infectious bronchitis virus
BCG vaccine, known for its broad immune effects, is proposed as a non-specific vaccine for avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV). This approach leverages BCG's ability to induce trained immunity, potentially protecting poultry throughout their lifespan.
Overview
The BCG vaccine, traditionally used against tuberculosis, is being explored as a non-specific vaccine for avian infectious bronchitis virus (IBV). BCG's ability to induce cell-mediated immunity and its heterologous effects can offer protection against various pathogens. In poultry, where rapid growth is crucial, BCG's trained immunity could provide effective protection throughout the birds' market lifespan.
Technical specifications
- Phase 1: In Vitro Proof-of-Concept (Months 1-12): Focuses on obtaining necessary permits and preparing vaccines. Key assays include investigating trained immunity in chicken macrophage cell lines and demonstrating T-cell activation in co-culture with chicken PBMCs.
- Phase 2: In Vivo Safety & Efficacy (Months 12-24): Includes safety profile studies with live or inactivated BCG in young chickens, evaluating weight gain, pathology, and CFU counts. Immunization and challenge studies with IBV are planned to assess efficacy.
Technology readiness level
Currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, this research is in the early stages of laboratory validation, focusing on in vitro proof-of-concept and initial in vivo safety and efficacy testing.
About Instituto Butantan
Instituto Butantan is a large public biomedical research and production institute in São Paulo, combining scientific research, professional training, public engagement, and the manufacture of health products. Its park-based campus brings research laboratories, development and innovation units, animal facilities, and industrial production into one operating environment. This integrated model supports collaboration with government, universities, and pharmaceutical companies, including technology-transfer partnerships designed to move products toward Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS). Research is supported by competitive funding from CNPq, FAPESP, CAPES, and Finep. An Innovation and Technology Licensing Office supports intellectual property, patenting, licensing, and commercialization.
Inquire about this partnering listing
Looking for
Industry applications
delivered to your inbox.