Development of Microalgal-Based Vaccines for Fish

Phycotransgenics goal is to develop a vaccine delivery system using microalgae to reduce diseaseassociated costs for aquaculture. To accomplish this, we transformed Chlamydomonas, a single-cell algal species, with an antigen gene. Through our Phase 1 Program, we demonstrated that: 1) an antigen expressed in our algae can elicit an immune response in fish, and; 2) using our microalgal delivery system, vaccines can be delivered to fish in several forms, as a feed, beverage, or immersion product. In Phase 2 we will develop a commercial prototype of our microalgal-based antigen delivery system. We will express an antigen of the IHN virus in our algae and conduct vaccine efficacy studies on fish challenged by IHNV. Fish will be vaccinated in an immersion bath or by medicated feed orally). The final objective of our research is to produce a mediated feed for oral vaccination that meets industry standards.