DNA Based Nanoparticle Platform for HIV Env Presentation

In this projectParabon NanoLabs and The Scripps Research Institute propose to develop and produce an effective HIVvaccine using a structured DNA origami nanocarrier for the targetedcontrolled delivery of a stabilizedtrimeric HIVenvelope glycoproteinEnvwith an integrated adjuvantThe project will begin with the synthesis and characterization of composite nanostructurePV NFLto include development and validation of assays for quantifying nanostructure shapepurityconsistencyantigen adjuvant loadingand stabilityConstruct efficacy will be evaluated in vitro using standardized B cell activation and APC uptake assays followed by in vivo studies in a murine model to evaluate seroconversion and proliferation of germinal centers in draining lymph nodesThese efforts will demonstrate whether the spatially organized presentation of Env trimer via a DNA origami nanocarrier with an integrated adjuvant significantly improves antibody responses in a murine immunization modelThese data will set the stage for a Phase II project to conduct further studies required for an IND filing with the FDA and offer a novel approach for creating safe and effective vaccines against HIVand other pathogens