Phase I of the project (2025)
We designed and generated four novel HBV-derived protein antigens, by including key HBV sequences aiming to offer protection against infection with the main HBV genotypes A, B, C, D, E, F, H.
We further analysed relevant molecular and functional properties of the newly obtained proteins: expression, folding, stability, antigenicity, secretion level, glycosylation, as well as the ability to self-assemble into subviral particles (non-infectious). Based on the evaluated properties, all the four proteins represent promising candidates for subsequent immunisation studies in animal model. To this purpose, we increased the production scale of the antigens which were subsequently subjected to a purification procedure.
An ELISA assay to determine the anti-HBV immune response following immunisation, was assembled and optimised by PRO VITAM, within HepBpanVac project.
Dissemination of the scientific results
The results obtained within HepBpanVac were disseminated at the International HBV Meeting (biology of the hepatitis B and D viruses), Berlin, Germany, 8-12th September 2025, by presenting the poster ‘Next-generation S/preS1 HBV antigens as cross-genotypic vaccine candidates’ (authors Mădălina Icriverzi, Cătălin Lazăr, Mihaela-Olivia Dobrică).
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Institute of Biochemistry
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060031, Bucharest 17
Romania