A recombinant subunit vaccine against COVID-19
In order to respond to the ongoing COVID19 pandemic, the lab has recently initiated efforts to design subunit vaccine candidates using the structure of the Spike Glycoprotein as a starting point, combined with data from previous efforts to produce a vaccine for the SARS outbreak of 2002. A number of derivatives of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein in a variety of expression systems (E.coli, Yeast, Mammalian and Insect Cells) have been made. Several of these designs have been purified in high yield, are stable and show high affinity binding to the human ACE 2 receptor and attempts to stabilize these through mutation are underway.
In collaboration with the IISc incubated startup, Mynvax, we are further testing these in small animal immunogenicity and challenge studies, prior to engaging with manufacturers to produce and clinically test a downselected vaccine formulation.