Next Generation Viral Hepatitis B and C vaccine development in plants and algae using advanced biotechnological tools
Biochemistry Institute ·Romania
About this project
<p><span style="font-size: 11pt"><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif">Hepatitis B and C viruses infect the human liver, triggering persistent inflammation and eventually generating a form of cancer which is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The main objective of the project is production in premiere of novel antigens with improved properties. In this context, our project proposal aims to: a) build upon our experience and knowledge accumulated in our previous research collaboration on Hepatitis B and C viruses (GreenVac project 2014-2017 funded by the EEA Norway-Romania Program) and produce high yields of novel Hepatitis B and C antigens with superior properties based on innovative molecular design; b) take this experience a step forward and establish in premiere an advanced biotechnological platform for production of Hepatitis B and C antigens in algae; c) take advantage of the multiple recombinant protein expression systems and perform a systematic, comparative characterization of the biochemical and functional properties of the new antigens; d) develop institutional networking around innovative plant and microalgae biotechnologies and train human resources in protein science in applied research in Romania and Norway.</span></span></p> <p> </p>
Bilateral cooperation results
By tackling a challenge of global importance, the SmartVac project has also created and ideal frame for international cooperation, knowledge exchange and capacity building in biotechnologies for human health, in both Romania and Norway. This fruitful collaboration will continue beyond the project life-span through (i) collaborative project applications including the Romanian and Norwegian partners that have already been initiated; (ii) further development of the HBV/HCV vaccine candidates generated in the SmartVac project, in the frame of a national project supported by The European Regional Development Fund; (iii) extending the current consortium by recruiting other European teams and apply in highly competitive EU programs, to advance current state-of-the art in plant and microalgae biotechnologies and develop novel medical applications.
Project partners
- Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO) Donor project partner· Norway
- National Institute for medical military research and development "Cantacuzino" " Project partner· Romania
- Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille Project partner· France