Experts from the University of Pittsburgh have announced the development of a vaccine that provides 100% protection for mice and chickens against H5N1 – a virus that has claimed the lives of over 80 people.
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Administering experimental vaccine to poultry (Photo: VNN) |
Because this vaccine contains live virus, it activates a stronger immune response compared to vaccines produced by traditional methods. Furthermore, as the virus is cultured in cells, the vaccine can be produced more rapidly.
Dr. Andrea Gambotto, the lead researcher, stated: ”The results of animal testing are very promising. Notably, it not only protects 100% of vaccinated animals but also stimulates multiple types of immune responses against H5N1.”
Dr. Gambotto and his team formulated this vaccine by modifying the genes of adenovirus – a common cold virus. Consequently, the adenovirus produces the HA protein of the H5N1 avian influenza virus. HA is found on the surface of all influenza viruses, helping the virus attach to the infected cells.
Six days after being infected with H5N1, no H5N1 virus was detected in the internal organs of the vaccinated mice, and these mice survived. In contrast, unvaccinated mice died within 6-9 days after exposure to H5N1. The same results were observed in chickens.
According to Dr. Gambotto, the method of developing this vaccine has significant advantages over traditional methods. Currently, flu vaccines are produced in chicken eggs, requiring millions of fertilized eggs. In the event of an avian flu pandemic, the supply of eggs would be limited.
Another advantage is speed. With the new method, it takes just over a month to formulate a new vaccine, compared to several months using traditional methods.
Minh Sơn (According to Science Today)
