The Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP) and MBF Therapeutics have joined forces to evaluate a groundbreaking DNA vaccine aimed at combating the devastating African Swine Fever (ASF). ASF, a highly contagious and deadly viral disease that has significantly impacted the global pig industry, poses a major threat. The disease has caused enormous damage, resulting in the death of millions of pigs and disrupting pork production and trade worldwide.
The collaboration between ACDP and MBF Therapeutics, as part of the CSIRO’s Immune Resilience Future Science platform, seeks to deepen our understanding of human and animal immune systems through advanced technologies. Dr. David Williams, an ASF expert at ACDP, emphasizes the urgency of finding a safe and effective vaccine as current first-generation vaccines carry potential risks.
The innovative DNA vaccine platform, developed by MBF Therapeutics, is based on technology adapted from immunotherapeutic treatments for human cancer. By targeting the pathogens upon entry into the body, the vaccine aims to eliminate the virus. Mr. Thomas Tillett, CEO of MBF Therapeutics, highlights the partnership’s potential to create a vaccine that can be safely utilized across all stages of swine production, including sows. This approach not only prevents disease in individual animals but also curbs transmission within herds and the environment.
ACDP’s unique laboratory capabilities in working with the African Swine Fever virus make it an invaluable partner in this endeavor. By leveraging their extensive diagnostic tools, research capabilities, and reagents, the collaboration aims to develop a safe and effective vaccine while gaining valuable insights for future research.
The development of a successful DNA vaccine for ASF holds immense promise for the pig industry globally. It would not only mitigate the devastating impact of the disease but also restore stability to pork production and trade. The joint efforts of ACDP and MBF Therapeutics serve as a beacon of hope for swine producers worldwide.
FAQ
What is African Swine Fever?
African Swine Fever (ASF) is a highly contagious viral disease that affects pigs. It is characterized by high fever, loss of appetite, and hemorrhages, leading to high mortality rates in infected animals. The disease poses a major threat to the global pig industry.
Why is developing a vaccine for African Swine Fever important?
Developing a vaccine for African Swine Fever is crucial to protect pig populations and prevent the spread of the disease. The vaccine would help mitigate the devastating impact on the pig industry, prevent significant economic losses, and ensure pork production and trade can operate smoothly.
What are the challenges in developing an effective vaccine for African Swine Fever?
One of the major challenges in developing a vaccine for African Swine Fever is finding a solution that is both safe and effective. Current vaccines carry potential risks, such as reverting back to a disease-causing form or causing side effects in sows and pigs with infections or other illnesses. Therefore, it is essential to develop a vaccine that can be safely used in all stages of swine production.
What is the role of the Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness (ACDP) in this collaboration?
The ACDP plays a crucial role in this collaboration due to its unique laboratory capabilities in working with the African Swine Fever virus. Their expertise, diagnostic tools, reagents, and research capabilities enable the safe evaluation of the DNA vaccine. Through this collaboration, ACDP aims to contribute to the development of a safe and effective vaccine while gaining valuable insights for future research.
What is the DNA vaccine platform developed by MBF Therapeutics?
The DNA vaccine platform developed by MBF Therapeutics is based on technology adapted from immunotherapeutic treatments used in human cancer treatment. This innovative approach aims to eliminate pathogens as they enter the body. By leveraging the expertise of ACDP in the field of African Swine Fever, MBF Therapeutics seeks to develop a truly safe and effective vaccine that can be used across all stages of swine production.