DNA vaccine models against ISA

Description

The goal of this project is to explore the feasibility of new DNA model vaccines against ISAV. It is a novel approach using a plasmid construct expressing ISAV protein subunits combined to an HSP binding sequence, with a suitable linker and signal sequence. Several antigenic ISA proteins and peptides will be selected, from full length protein to single epitopes. The various plasmid constructs will be tested in vivo, and RPS values (relative protection survival) will be determined by comparison to vector alone.

To achieve this goal we will:

1. produce recombinant vectors for the expression of specific ISAV genes;
2. prepare sufficient quantities of recombinant vectors for a vaccine trial;
3. do a vaccine trial using different vaccine formulation;
4. detect DNA vaccine, in situ transcription, and measure genomic markers of immune response after vaccination.

Program Name

Aquaculture Collaborative Research and Development Program (ACRDP)

Year(s)

2009 - 2012

Ecoregion(s)

Atlantic: Gulf of Maine, Scotian Shelf

Principal Investigator(s)

Nellie Gagné
Email: Nellie.Gagne@dfo-mpo.gc.ca