Expected Results
The scientific steps and outcomes of the NOVADUCK project are illustrated in Figure 1.
Figure 1: Scientific and Technological approach to achieve the NOVADUCK project goals
The NOVADUCK project is designed to identify the optimal Avian Influenza (AI) immunogenic sequence(s) to be inserted into a vector. In particular, the in vivo production of retrovirus-based virus-like particles, a technology developed by Epixis, will be explored. New specific tools to evaluate humoral, cellular and mucosal immunity induced in ducks will be developed. Three types of vector-based vaccines containing the optimal immunogenic sequence(s) will be generated, and their immunogenicity using different administration modes will be compared to that of existing inactivated AI vaccines using the newly developed immunological tools. A challenge model using the most recent and representative AI isolates in which clinical signs, oral and cloacal shedding can be significantly detected in all challenged birds will be set up in ducks and will be used to compare the efficacy induced by the newly selected vector-based vaccine candidates with that induced by existing vaccines. Studies will be designed to verify that the newly developed vaccines show clear benefits over existing vaccines. The compatibility of these vector-based vaccines with newly developed DIVA tests will also be verified. In addition, data will be generated on the effect of vaccination of ducks on genetic/antigenic drift of the challenge virus.
