University of São Paulo researchers develop innovative chikungunya vaccine strategy

Researchers from the University of São Paulo and collaborators from the University of Bonn have developed an innovative “intelligent immunizer” strategy using a genetically modified version of the chikungunya virus. Published in the journal np Vaccines, the study demonstrates that the modified pathogen can replicate only once within the organism, providing sufficient stimulus to train the immune system without the risk of causing disease.

In initial mouse trials, a single dose of the formulation provided protection. This technology aims to create a platform that is safe for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and immunosuppressed individuals, because the virus is physically incapable of becoming infectious. The researchers suggest this platform could eventually be adapted to combat other diseases.