Polyvalent Vaccine to Protect Poultry from Avian Influenza

In this Phase I SBIR application, we propose the trivalent influenza virus-like particle (VLP) vaccine that is not dependent on egg production and allows protection of poultry against multiple AI viruses. Our hypothesis is that expression of H5, H7, and H9 HA proteins will result in a trivalent vaccine that will contain HA proteins derived from three distinct AI viruses. We hypothesize that trivalent VLPs will elicit broad protection against multiple AI strains, especially if vaccine is administered through the respiratory route. We propose preparation and feasibility testing in mice of the prototype trivalent VLPs as a broadly protective AI vaccine. VLPs will be prepared in Sf9 insect cells using baculovirus expression system. Characteristics of VLPs will be determined including expression levels in Sf9 cell culture and genetic stability. Immunogenicity and efficacy of trivalent vaccine will be evaluated in BALB/c mice in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC, Atlanta, GA). If successful, this technology may allow rapid preparation of inexpensive and highly effective poultry vaccines against multiple AI strains.