Next-Generation Vaccines for Animal Infectious Diseases

A special issue of Vaccines (ISSN 2076-393X). This special issue belongs to the section "Veterinary Vaccines".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2025 | Viewed by 5736

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, National Joint Local Bioengineering Laboratory for Zoonosis, Key Laboratory of Animal Vaccine Development of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, No. 483, Wushan Street, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510642, China
Interests: novel animal vaccine development; pathogenesis and immunological mechanisms of the rabies virus; development of oral vaccine vectors for infectious diseases of animals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, National Joint Local Bioengineering Laboratory for Zoonosis, Key Laboratory of Animal Vaccine Development of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, No. 483, Wushan Street, Tianhe District, Guangzhou 510642, China
Interests: epidemiological characteristics and variation regularity of pathogen; regulate and control network of interaction between pathogen and host; new vaccine development

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Guest Editor
Key Laboratory of Fishery Drug Development, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Aquatic Animal Immunology and Sustainable Aquaculture, Pearl River Fisheries Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Fishery Sciences, Guangzhou 510380, China
Interests: prevention and control of virus diseases in aquatic animals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Vaccines play a pivotal role in safeguarding against animal infectious diseases, which not only impact global livestock production but also pose a risk to human health and security. The financial consequences of such diseases, ranging from production losses to trade restrictions, are immense. Vaccines, therefore, serve as a critical front-line defense, preventing, managing, and sometimes eradicating diseases. Traditional vaccines, though effective in certain cases, face challenges in terms of safety, efficacy, and speed of deployment. Next-generation vaccines offer enhanced efficacy and stability compared to traditional vaccines, owing to their precise targeting and controlled release mechanisms. These vaccines hold promise for the future, revolutionizing animal infectious disease prevention and control through improved immune response induction, broader pathogen coverage, and simplified administration protocols. We invite researchers working in diverse areas of next-generation vaccines research to contribute their insights and expertise to this exciting field, contributing to the global effort against animal infectious diseases.

This Special Issue cordially invites submissions of original research and review articles focusing primarily on the preclinical and clinical development of vaccines in the field of prevention and control of animal infectious diseases, including novel vector-based vaccines, new adjuvanted vaccines, LNP-mRNA vaccines, VLP vaccines, polymeric/inorganic nanoparticle vaccines, self-assembled protein vaccines, biomimetic nanoparticle vaccines, and so on.

Dr. Yongwen Luo
Prof. Dr. Huiying Fan
Dr. Qing Wang
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • LNP-mRNA vaccines
  • VLP vaccines
  • polymeric/inorganic nanoparticle vaccines
  • self-assembled protein vaccines
  • biomimetic nanoparticle vaccines
  • novel vector-based vaccines
  • new adjuvanted vaccines
  • nanovaccines

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

14 pages, 1478 KiB  
Article
The Evaluation of a Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2) Intradermal Vaccine Against a PCV2 Field Strain
by Cheng-Kai Hsieh, Chia-Yi Chien, Chun-Wei Liu, Shu-Wei Chang, Hongyao Lin, Leonardo Ellerma, Ming-Tang Chiou and Chao-Nan Lin
Vaccines 2025, 13(4), 343; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13040343 - 24 Mar 2025
Viewed by 458
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) has a major impact on swine productivity. Vaccines are used to aid in control and mitigate production losses. We investigated the protection provided by an intradermal PCV2 vaccine against a field strain in Taiwan. Methods: We conducted [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) has a major impact on swine productivity. Vaccines are used to aid in control and mitigate production losses. We investigated the protection provided by an intradermal PCV2 vaccine against a field strain in Taiwan. Methods: We conducted a safety and efficacy study. In the safety study, four Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) piglets were enrolled in the study. One was selected as the control and left unvaccinated, one was selected to be intradermally vaccinated with five times the standard dose (1 mL, Porcilis® PCV ID), and the other two were vaccinated with two times the standard dose (0.4 mL, Porcilis® PCV ID). All animals were observed for 3 weeks for adverse events post-vaccination. In the efficacy study, twelve SPF pigs negative for the PCV2 antibody were randomly divided into two groups. The first group of six pigs was vaccinated (Porcilis PCV ID, 0.2 mL) intradermally at 3 weeks of age. The second group of six pigs was sham vaccinated with 0.2 mL of normal saline. At 7 weeks of age, all pigs were challenged with the PCV2 strain CYC08 (1 × 105 TCID50/mL) by nasal and intramuscular injection. Clinical monitoring of body temperature and mortality was conducted daily. At 11 weeks of age, all animals were sacrificed for histopathological analysis. Results: No adverse events were reported in the safety study. In the efficacy study, the vaccinated animals had statistically improved results in the following areas post-challenge: body temperature rise, viremia, virus shedding, mortality, tissue histopathological and microscopic scores. Conclusions: The study results support that a one-dose PCV2 vaccine administered intradermally with a needle-free injector is safe and provides protection when challenged with a field PCV2 strain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Generation Vaccines for Animal Infectious Diseases)
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17 pages, 6448 KiB  
Article
The Protective Effects and Immunological Responses Induced by a Carboxymethyl Cellulose Microcapsule-Coated Inactivated Vaccine Against Largemouth Bass Ranavirus (LMBRaV) in Largemouth Bass (Micropterus salmoides)
by Jiale Zhai, Yuding Fan, Yiqun Li, Mingyang Xue, Yan Meng, Zhenyu Huang, Jie Ma, Yong Zhou and Nan Jiang
Vaccines 2025, 13(3), 233; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13030233 - 25 Feb 2025
Viewed by 568
Abstract
Background: Epizootics of largemouth bass ranavirus (LMBRaV) in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) populations are associated with elevated mortality and significant financial losses. Given the lack of effective and safe medication to treat this disease, oral vaccination, which directly targets the intestinal [...] Read more.
Background: Epizootics of largemouth bass ranavirus (LMBRaV) in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) populations are associated with elevated mortality and significant financial losses. Given the lack of effective and safe medication to treat this disease, oral vaccination, which directly targets the intestinal mucosal immune system, is crucial for disease resistance. Methods: This study utilized carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) to coat LMBRaV inactivated vaccine (LIV) (micro-CMC@LIV). The morphology and characteristics of the CMC microcapsules were determined. In vitro simulated gastric and intestinal conditions were used to validate that the microcapsules could tolerate gastric conditions and subsequently release their contents in the intestinal tract. This was confirmed using CMC-coated coumarin 6 (C6) fluorescence microcapsules. Results: After the oral administration of micro-CMC@LIV, the detection of LMBRaV major capsid protein confirmed effective antigen release and absorption in the midgut and hindgut. Neutralizing antibody titers were significantly higher (1:81.71) in the micro-CMC@LIV group compared to the uncoated vaccine group (1:21.69). The expression of genes linked to the innate and adaptive immune systems was upregulated post-micro-CMC@LIV treatment. Following the LMBRaV challenge, the micro-CMC@LIV group exhibited a relative percent survival (RPS) of 82.14%, significantly higher than the uncoated vaccine group (61.61%). Droplet digital PCR analysis revealed significantly lower viral loads in the liver, spleen, and head kidney of the micro-CMC@LIV group compared to the control group and the uncoated vaccine group. Conclusions: These results collectively suggest that the CMC-coated LIV can be effectively delivered to the intestinal tract and induce robust antibody and immune responses, providing a reliable method for preventing and controlling LMBRaV disease in the largemouth bass industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Generation Vaccines for Animal Infectious Diseases)
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21 pages, 3533 KiB  
Article
T4 Phage Displaying Dual Antigen Clusters Against H3N2 Influenza Virus Infection
by Shenglong Liu, Mengzhou Lin and Xin Zhou
Vaccines 2025, 13(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines13010070 - 13 Jan 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1125
Abstract
Background: The current H3N2 influenza subunit vaccine exhibits weak immunogenicity, which limits its effectiveness in preventing and controlling influenza virus infections. Methods: In this study, we aimed to develop a T4 phage-based nanovaccine designed to enhance the immunogenicity of two antigens by displaying [...] Read more.
Background: The current H3N2 influenza subunit vaccine exhibits weak immunogenicity, which limits its effectiveness in preventing and controlling influenza virus infections. Methods: In this study, we aimed to develop a T4 phage-based nanovaccine designed to enhance the immunogenicity of two antigens by displaying the HA1 and M2e antigens of the H3N2 influenza virus on each phage nanoparticle. Specifically, we fused the Soc protein with the HA1 antigen and the Hoc protein with the M2e antigen, assembling them onto a T4 phage that lacks Soc and Hoc proteins (SocHocT4), thereby constructing a nanovaccine that concurrently presents both HA1 and M2e antigens. Results: The analysis of the optical density of the target protein bands indicated that each particle could display approximately 179 HA1 and 68 M2e antigen molecules. Additionally, animal experiments demonstrated that this nanoparticle vaccine displaying dual antigen clusters induced a stronger specific immune response, higher antibody titers, a more balanced Th1/Th2 immune response, and enhanced CD4+ and CD8+ T cell effects compared to immunization with HA1 and M2e antigen molecules alone. Importantly, mice immunized with the T4 phage displaying dual antigen clusters achieved full protection (100% protection) against the H3N2 influenza virus, highlighting its robust protective efficacy. Conclusions: In summary, our findings indicate that particles based on a T4 phage displaying antigen clusters exhibit ideal immunogenicity and protective effects, providing a promising strategy for the development of subunit vaccines against various viruses beyond influenza. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Generation Vaccines for Animal Infectious Diseases)
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14 pages, 3234 KiB  
Article
Combination Adjuvants Enhance Recombinant H5 Hemagglutinin Vaccine Protection Against High-Dose Viral Challenge in Chickens
by Yanjuan He, Jiaxin Wang, Lanyan Chi, Yajing Dong, Huixin Chen, Xiaocui Meng, Ming Liao, Yongwen Luo and Huiying Fan
Vaccines 2024, 12(12), 1448; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12121448 - 23 Dec 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1264
Abstract
Background: Recombinant avian influenza subunit vaccines often require adjuvants to enhance immune responses. This study aims to evaluate the immune-enhancing potential of seven combination adjuvants in specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens. Methods: SPF chickens were vaccinated with combinations of ISA78VG and adjuvants, including Quil-A, [...] Read more.
Background: Recombinant avian influenza subunit vaccines often require adjuvants to enhance immune responses. This study aims to evaluate the immune-enhancing potential of seven combination adjuvants in specific pathogen-free (SPF) chickens. Methods: SPF chickens were vaccinated with combinations of ISA78VG and adjuvants, including Quil-A, CpG, and monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA). Their immune responses were assessed using a vaccination and viral challenge protection model. Results: The combinations of ISA78VG with Quil-A, CpG&MPLA or CpG&Quil-A significantly enhanced antibody responses and provided cross-protection against the H5N8-20135 strain. The ISA78VG&MPLA and ISA78VG&CpG&MPLA combinations induced the stronger IFN-γ production, with CpG further amplifying the immune response. The ISA78VG&Quil-A formulation, in particular, stimulated rapid antibody responses, achieving a 100% seroconversion by day 14 and high titers of hemagglutination inhibition (HI) antibodies against both the recombinant HA antigen and the H5N6-20053 virus. Conclusions: The ISA78VG&Quil-A combination is an ideal adjuvant for enhancing the immunogenicity of avian influenza rHA subunit vaccines, offering a promising strategy for H5 subtype vaccine development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Generation Vaccines for Animal Infectious Diseases)
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16 pages, 3418 KiB  
Article
Development of a Ferritin-Based Nanoparticle Vaccine against Classical Swine Fever
by Yiwan Song, Zhongmao Yuan, Junzhi Ji, Yang Ruan, Xiaowen Li, Lianxiang Wang, Weijun Zeng, Keke Wu, Wenshuo Hu, Lin Yi, Hongxing Ding, Mingqiu Zhao, Shuangqi Fan, Zhaoyao Li and Jinding Chen
Vaccines 2024, 12(8), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12080948 - 22 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1544
Abstract
The occurrence of classical swine fever (CSF) poses a significant threat to the global swine industry. Developing an effective and safe vaccine is crucial for preventing and controlling CSF. Here, we constructed self-assembled ferritin nanoparticles fused with the classical swine fever virus (CSFV) [...] Read more.
The occurrence of classical swine fever (CSF) poses a significant threat to the global swine industry. Developing an effective and safe vaccine is crucial for preventing and controlling CSF. Here, we constructed self-assembled ferritin nanoparticles fused with the classical swine fever virus (CSFV) E2 protein and a derived B cell epitope (Fe-E2B) using a baculovirus expression system (BVES), demonstrating enhanced immunogenicity. Furthermore, we provide a detailed evaluation of the immunological efficacy of the FeE2B in rabbits. The results showed that robust and sustained antibody responses were detected in rabbits immunized with the Fe-E2B nanoparticle vaccine, comparable to those elicited by commercially available vaccines. Additionally, we demonstrated that the vaccine effectively activated crucial immune factors IFN-γ and IL-4 in vivo, increasing their levels by 1.41-fold and 1.39-fold, respectively. Immunization with Fe-E2B enabled rabbits to avoid viremia and stereotypic fever after CSFV challenge. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of ferritin nanoparticles as antigen-presenting carriers to induce robust immune responses, proposing a candidate vaccine strategy for the prevention and control of CSF. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Generation Vaccines for Animal Infectious Diseases)
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