Cell-based vaccines

Cell-Based Vaccines:

• Introduction: Cell-based vaccines are produced using cultured cells instead of eggs or other traditional methods. These vaccines use mammalian cells, insect cells, or other cell lines as a platform to grow viruses or express viral proteins. This process allows for the production of vaccines that are highly purified and less dependent on seasonal factors or supply chain limitations, making them a versatile option for both seasonal and pandemic vaccine production.


• Technology: Our approach to cell-based vaccine development leverages advanced recombinant DNA technology. We use cell lines such as MDCK (Madin-Darby Canine Kidney) cells, Vero cells, and HEK293 cells to produce viral proteins or entire viral particles. These cells are engineered to express the target antigen, which is then harvested, purified, and formulated into a vaccine. This method is particularly useful for developing vaccines against rapidly evolving viruses, as it allows for quicker adaptation to new strains.


• Development Process: The development of cell-based vaccines involves several key steps:
  • Cell Line Selection: Choosing the appropriate cell line based on the target pathogen and desired vaccine properties.
  • Genetic Engineering: Using recombinant DNA techniques to insert the gene encoding the target antigen into the chosen cell line.
  • Protein Expression or Viral Growth: Culturing the cells to express the target antigen or to grow the virus, which is then inactivated or attenuated.
  • Purification: Harvesting and purifying the antigen or viral particles to ensure high-quality vaccine production.
  • Preclinical Testing: Conducting in vitro and in vivo studies to evaluate the safety, immunogenicity, and efficacy of the cell-based vaccine.
  • Clinical Trials: Advancing through phases I, II, and III clinical trials to confirm the vaccine’s safety and efficacy in humans.
  • Manufacturing: Scaling up production in cGMP-compliant facilities, ensuring consistent quality and adherence to regulatory standards.

• Case Studies/Examples: Cell-based vaccines have been successfully developed for influenza, with products like Flucelvax® demonstrating the advantages of this technology in terms of faster production and adaptability to changing viral strains. These vaccines have shown to be effective and safe, setting a new standard for vaccine production.