Development of an effective malarial vaccine has been slow, although recent success in vaccine development has been achieved by using the Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite surface protein (CSP)-hepatitis B surface antigen fusions, in conjunction with hepatitis B particles (the RTS, S formulation). The results of these studies suggest the potential of improved malarial vaccines by use of the viral-like particle (VLP)-linked immunogen approach. The VLP technology is being utilized for the development of vaccines for a variety of diseases. Agave BioSystems proposes to develop a novel platform for development of malarial vaccines consisting of a VLP displayed malarial antigen/adjuvant based on the Norwalk virus (NV) capsid protein. The NV-VLP will be engineered to express a candidate antigen in combination with a peptide adjuvant. These VLPs will be characterized, purified and delivered for testing of efficacy to stimulate cellular and humoral immune responses.
Keywords: Malaria, Vaccine, Virus Like Particles, Antigen, Adjuvant Display, P. Falciparum, Celtos, Norwalk Virus
