In a groundbreaking development, the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) has successfully transferred innovative vaccine technology to BioMed Pvt. Ltd. This technology heralds the creation of the first recombinant virus-based vaccine targeting the classical swine fever virus, a significant threat to India’s pig industry.
IIT Guwahati Transfers Technology for First Recombinant Vaccine Against Swine Fever Virus
Classical swine fever, known for its high mortality rate among pigs, has posed a considerable challenge in India, particularly in northeastern states, Bihar, Kerala, Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat. Despite its devastating impact on pig populations, there has been a lack of effective vaccines against this disease in the country.
The journey towards this milestone began in 2018-2019 through collaborative efforts between researchers from the Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering at IIT Guwahati and Assam Agricultural University in Guwahati. Their relentless work culminated in the development of a recombinant vector vaccine, leveraging a reverse genetic platform pioneered at IIT Guwahati.
Utilizing a reverse genetics approach, researchers employed the Newcastle disease virus (NDV), traditionally associated with chicken pathogenicity, as a carrier for crucial proteins of the classical swine fever virus. This innovative technique not only expedites vaccine development but also enhances cost-effectiveness, marking a significant advancement in combating the disease.
The successful technology transfer to BioMed Pvt. Ltd., a prominent manufacturer of high-quality vaccines, marks a remarkable achievement in India’s veterinary vaccine sector. This partnership signifies a crucial step towards the commercial production and distribution of the innovative vaccine, addressing a critical gap in India’s vaccine landscape.
The vaccine’s development and production hold immense promise in curbing the spread of classical swine fever, particularly in regions where the disease has been rampant in recent years. It is currently undergoing the process of filing test and analysis licenses, paving the way for its widespread application in breeding farms across the country.
This pioneering initiative underscores IIT Guwahati’s commitment to cutting-edge research and innovation in addressing pressing healthcare challenges. With its interdisciplinary approach and collaborative efforts, IIT Guwahati continues to lead the way in advancing science and technology for societal benefit.
Established in 1994, IIT Guwahati has emerged as a premier academic institution, offering a wide range of programs spanning engineering, science, healthcare, management, and humanities. The institute’s steadfast dedication to excellence has garnered recognition both nationally and internationally, positioning it among the top engineering institutions in India and the world.
As India’s pig industry faces the looming threat of classical swine fever, the development and transfer of this groundbreaking vaccine technology represent a significant stride towards safeguarding animal health and bolstering agricultural sustainability. Through collaboration and innovation, IIT Guwahati and its partners are paving the way for a healthier future for India’s livestock and agricultural sector.
For further information, please contact:
Bhavani Giddu – Footprint Global Communications Cell: 9999500262 / Email: bhavani.giddu@footprintglobal.com Akhil Vaidya – Footprint Global Communications Cell: 98821 02818 / Email: akhil.vaidya@footprintglobal.com Anurupa Devi – Footprint Global Communications Cell: 60016 99065 / Email: anurupa.devi@footprintglobal.com Gaurvi Narang – Footprint Global Communications Cell: 99741 94407 / Email: gaurvi.narang@footprintglobal.com
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