The Faculty of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong recently announced a major breakthrough in developing broadly protective, live-attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV).
Researchers from the university said that while vaccination remains key to preventing influenza, current seasonal vaccines only cover specific virus strains and require annual updates.
If the circulating virus differs from the strains targeted by the vaccine, it’s effectiveness can be significantly reduced
The research team has developed two innovative strategies to create a new generation of LAIV.
The first strategy involved inserting specific genes into the influenza virus to activate natural human antibodies, thereby enhancing the vaccine-induced immune response.
The second strategy introduced silent mutations into human influenza viruses, altering their codon usage to resemble that of an avian influenza viruses. This modification ensures the virus remains safe for use in vaccines.
Studies have shown that both strategies can protect against multiple subtypes of influenza A viruses.
“LAIVs offer the advantage of intranasal administration, which has been shown to trigger mucosal immune responses along the respiratory tract, providing extra protection against infection,” said Professor Leo Poon Lit-man from the university’s Faculty of Medicine.
He added that the needle-free delivery method helps reduce the fear of vaccination, especially among young children.
