The targeted development of a new generation Vaccine for Schistosomiasis

Objective

The aim of this project is to develop a new generation vaccine for schistosomiasis. The vaccine will be based on exposed proteins and/or glycans of the vulnerable skin stage schistosomula, making it safe and effective. The life stage-specific vaccine target selection strategy is based on state-of-the-art schistosomal transcriptomics and glycomics technologies and data, and unique serum and sample libraries from endemic areas will be the key to identifying protective immune responses and effective targets. Preclinical in vitro (cellular and whole parasite) and in vivo (rat model) testing of protective antigens with respect to cellular responses and effective parasite killing are part of the development pipeline. Analysis of human T- and B-cell responsiveness is an integral part of the approach. A unique SME-led approach to potentiate the effect of immunisation by use of engineering engineered antibodies will also be part of the project. The project involves strong participation of researchers from four schistosomiasis-endemic countries, and several European groups all with a long history of successful collaboration.

Field of science

• /medical and health sciences/health sciences/public and environmental health/epidemics prevention/immunisation

Programme(s)

• FP7-HEALTH - Specific Programme "Cooperation": Health

Topic(s)

• HEALTH-2009-4.3.1-1 - Discovery and development of new vaccines or drugs for helminth infections (SICA)

Call for proposal

FP7-HEALTH-2009-single-stage
See other projects for this call

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (12)