AgriLabs developed the first DNA vaccine licensed for chickens
The approval also represents the first for AgriLabs’ ExactVacTM DNA technology with ENABL adjuvant, the first DNA vaccine approved for influenza for veterinary use, and among the first DNA vaccines approved in the United States for food animals.
“This is a major milestone in realizing the promise of DNA vaccines in animal health,” says Steve Schram, president and CEO of AgriLabs. “Past DNA research for vaccines for food animals has failed to deliver efficacy, cost and convenience. We believe ENABL adjuvant technology has unlocked the key to DNA vaccines. DNA vaccines offer tremendous potential, and our ENABL technology is unique in its ability to help realize that potential.”
Mr. Schram added that DNA vaccines can be tools in the fight against important and emerging animal diseases – via rapid response in vaccine development and production that’s far faster than conventional vaccines.
In addition, the company says that DNA vaccines are attractive in that they don’t expose the animals being treated to disease-producing organisms and there is no risk of a modified pathogen mutating back to a virulent form.
DNA vaccines also provide the ability to differentiate among infected and vaccinated animals (DIVA).
Opportunities for Other Species, Licensing Outside U.S.
Furthermore, the company announced that its ExactVac DNA technology is applicable to other disease pathogens and animal species, including AgriLabs’ next targets of swine influenza and opportunities in cattle production.
AgriLabs is looking for partners to license its DNA technology outside of the US market.
"The vaccine is produced by splicing a gene for a specific antigen related to an Avian Influenza High Pathogenic H5 subtype into a bacterial plasmid. The plasmid is then multiplied, purified and administered along with the ENABL adjuvant that improves vaccine delivery into target cells, where antigens produced by the plasmid elicit an immune response," AgriLabs statement read.
AgriLabs is a leader in biological innovation for animal health in the United States. Through proprietary DNA platform and adjuvant technologies, AgriLabs is delivering the next generation of vaccine solutions for farm animals.
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