Key Steps of VLP Vaccine Production

1. 1. Gene Cloning: The genes encoding the structural proteins of the virus are initially cloned from the target virus. These genes may include viral capsid proteins or other crucial structural proteins. Subsequently, the target gene is amplified by PCR and is then inserted into an expression vector.
2. 2. Cell Culture: Expression vectors are transfected into host cells to express the capsid genes and produce VLP particles. Notably, virus-like particulate proteins possess the capability to self-assemble, forming structures resembling virus particles under suitable conditions. Commonly employed host cells include insect, mammalian, and plant cells.
3. 3. Cell Lysis: Harvested, cultured cells are separated from the culture medium, typically through centrifugation. Subsequently, the cells undergo lysis using mechanical, chemical, or other methods to release the VLP particles.
4. 4. Three-Steps Purification: Initially, cell debris and aggregates from the lysis process are eliminated through clarification methods like precipitation and ultrafiltration. Further purification, such as ion exchange chromatography, hydrophobic interaction chromatography, etc., is utilized according to the VLP’s specific properties. The final, crucial polishing step typically employs ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF) and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) to eliminate impurities, including residual host proteins and nucleic acids.
5. 5. Vaccine Preparation: The intact and purified VLP particles undergo aseptic filtration and adjuvant addition to create a safe and effective vaccine.

The Nemesis of Norovirus

Noroviruses stand as the predominant culprits behind widespread epidemics and acute gastroenteritis outbreaks, emerging as the most prevalent non-bacterial agents responsible for foodborne illnesses. The challenges posed by these viruses, such as their rapid mutation, diverse types, limited cross-protection, short-lived immunoprotection, absence of effective cell culture systems and experimental animal models, coupled with a minimal understanding of critical aspects like the pathogenic mechanism of infection and protective immune markers, create substantial hurdles for the development and application of vaccines. The intricacies of noroviruses extend to their inefficient growth in cultured cells, rendering traditional live attenuated or inactivated vaccine approaches impractical. Consequently, the adoption of non-replicating recombinant protein vaccine strategies with VLPs has become a prevailing choice.

Recently, a groundbreaking collaboration between major companies in the vaccine development sector promises to significantly advance the fight against norovirus infections. This partnership aims to leverage innovative technologies and exclusive licensing agreements to bring forth a vaccine that addresses the unmet clinical demand. While no international companies currently offer a vaccine to combat norovirus infections, this collaboration marks a pivotal step towards fulfilling this significant market potential and offers hope for effective prevention strategies against these challenging viruses.

Synbio Technologies | Efficient Protein Expression Empowers Recombinant Protein Vaccine Development

With our effective protein expression platforms—Bacterial, Yeast, Insect and Mammalian, Synbio Technologies is the perfect partner to help you efficiently develop recombinant protein vaccines and expedite your research process as a whole!