Development of manufacturing technology for the practical application of specialized and environmentally sensitive nutrients, enzymes, immune-stimulating compounds and biologics to aquafeeds

Zeigler Bros., Inc. (ZBI) has teamed with Harrisvaccines, Inc. (HV) to develop a new aquafeed manufacturing platform for the practical application of underutilized feed additives. These include enzymes, immune-stimulating compounds and biologics that require specialized protection to ensure they are delivered to the animal as viable compounds. ZBI pioneered microparticle feeds and will use this technology to manufacture inclusion particles capable of stabilizing these underutilized additives. RNA interference (RANi) is a promising, emerging technology that has demonstrated a range of applications in aquaculture as an antiviral/immune-stimulating compound. It is proposed that double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) constitute the RNAi effector molecules that provide that antiviral effect. Furthermore, RNA provides and environmentally sensitive model that has a pre-existing base for molecular assays for detection. HV can produce large-scale amounts of RNA that make a commercially feasible feed additive and they have shown that these RNA molecules can protect against lethal White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) challenge. The immediate impact from a successful Phase I project will be the first candidate orally delivered molecular WSSV vaccine for clinical trial. With subsequent Phase II funding ZBI and HV will qualify this platform for effectiveness in controlling other aquaculture diseases, reducing effluents and increasing nutrient utilization.