AgriLabs® today announced it has received a U.S. patent for ENABL® adjuvant technology and its use as a delivery system for the DNA vaccines the company is developing. The patent covers a broad range of adjuvant compositions and methods for human and animal health.
“This is a major step in commercialization of our
DNA vaccine platform for a number of animal species,” says Steve Schram, president and CEO of AgriLabs. “DNA vaccines offer tremendous promise in terms of efficacy, safety and convenience, and ENABL technology is unique in its ability to help realize that potential.”
The Promise of DNA Vaccines
According to Schram, DNA vaccines can be tools in the fight against important and emerging animal diseases – via rapid response that’s far faster than conventional vaccines. In addition, DNA vaccines are attractive in that they don’t expose the animals being treated to disease-producing organisms and there is no risk of a modified pathogen mutating back to a virulent form. The use of DNA vaccines also provides the ability to differentiate among infected and vaccinated animals (DIVA).
ENABL adjuvant technology helps realize that promise through more efficient delivery of DNA-based vaccines, which results in a higher absorption of antigen and greater immune response, according to Dr. Tim Miller, chief scientific officer of AgriLabs.
“ENABL adjuvants feature a lipid/polymer matrix that allows for more efficient delivery of both DNA and traditional vaccines to target cells,” Miller says. “This means we have an expandable platform that can address issues such as reduced number of doses for DNA vaccines, which makes them economically viable options. “
DNA vaccines being developed by AgriLabs will also provide ease of transport and storage since they are stable in refrigeration and at room temperature, according to Miller.
Opportunities across Species
Initially, AgriLabs is working to secure USDA approval for its DNA vaccine platform in poultry and swine. AgriLabs is developing vaccines based on the platform for those species, as well as cattle and other food animals in the United States. The company is seeking commercial partners to license the DNA vaccine platform for companion animal usage and food animals outside the United States.
“Our DNA platform, including ENABL adjuvant technology, represents the next generation of biological innovation in animal health,” Schram says. “We’re pleased to be recognized with the granting of a patent for this significant step forward.”