IIL Develops Breakthrough Needle-free COVID-19 Intranasal Vaccine Using Codon Deoptimization Technology
Introduction
Indian Immunological Limited (IIL), a prominent vaccine manufacturer, has made a significant leap in the fight against COVID-19 by developing a live-attenuated, needle-free intranasal booster vaccine against SARS-CoV-2. This innovative vaccine was created in collaboration with Griffith University, Australia, utilizing codon deoptimization technology. The research and development efforts behind this vaccine have been recognized globally, with the work being published in the prestigious journal Nature Communications on 26th August 2024.
The Ongoing Threat of COVID-19
Despite the progress made in combating the COVID-19 pandemic, the virus remains a global threat, still claiming approximately 1,700 lives each week. The World Health Organization continues to urge at-risk populations to stay up-to-date with their vaccinations and boosters to protect themselves against the ongoing danger of the virus.
Advantages of Live Attenuated Vaccines
Live attenuated vaccines are known for their ability to generate robust and broad-spectrum neutralizing antibody responses. IIL’s needle-free intranasal booster vaccine is based on this principle, leveraging the effectiveness of live attenuated viruses. This particular vaccine, developed using codon deoptimization technology, has shown remarkable stability and safety across extensive animal studies.
Codon Deoptimization: A Revolutionary Technology
Codon deoptimization is a sophisticated virus attenuation strategy that involves modifying the genetic code by decreasing the frequency of underrepresented codon pairs. These codon pairs are genetic determinants for amino acids, and their optimization can lead to virus attenuation without altering the amino acid sequences. The method is highly efficient, allowing for the attenuation of virtually any virus, with the degree of attenuation being adjustable from 1% to 100% as needed.
This technology offers a faster and safer alternative to traditional virus attenuation methods, which can take several years to achieve similar results. By using codon deoptimization, IIL has been able to create a vaccine that presents all viral antigens and mimics natural infection, thereby eliciting a strong immune response.
Significance of the Breakthrough
Dr. K Anand Kumar, Managing Director of Indian Immunologicals Limited, emphasized the importance of this accomplishment in the global fight against COVID-19. He highlighted that the development of this vaccine not only demonstrates IIL’s commitment to public health innovation but also showcases the company’s ability to adopt and apply cutting-edge technology. The needle-free, intranasal vaccine is expected to revolutionize the approach to immunization by making it non-invasive, which could significantly enhance vaccination rates and protect more people.
Industry-Academia Collaboration
Dr. Priyabrata Pattnaik, Deputy Managing Director of Indian Immunological Limited, pointed out that this vaccine is a prime example of successful collaboration between industry and academia. The partnership between IIL and Griffith University has transformed a scientific concept into a viable product that can benefit millions. Dr. Pattnaik expressed pride in the dedicated efforts of IIL’s R&D team, who have worked tirelessly to ensure the vaccine’s safety and efficacy. The vaccine has proven to generate a protective immune response with just a single dose, marking a significant milestone in the fight against infectious diseases.
IIL’s needle-free COVID-19 intranasal vaccine represents a game-changing advancement in vaccine technology. With the application of codon deoptimization, this innovative vaccine not only provides a safe and effective booster against SARS-CoV-2 but also paves the way for future advancements in non-invasive immunization techniques.
