The Need

As one of the top three swine respiratory health problems in the U.S., swine influenza virus (SIV) is a key concern for the industry. SIV – referred to as “swine flu” or “flu” – can be caused by a number of different swine influenza strains. SIV has evolved from a seasonal disease caused by a stable genotype of SIV to a year-round, endemic respiratory disease caused by multiple SIV genotypes undergoing continuous change. This, coupled with the fact that the disease is characterized by nearly 100% morbidity, makes this one of the most challenging diseases for today’s swine operations.

The Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University led by Dr. Renukaradhya Gourapura have developed a mucoadhesive nanoparticle entrapped influenza virus vaccine delivery system. Natural,mucoadhesive and biodegradable nanoparticle entrapped influenza virus elicits strong mucosal antibody response in pigs vaccinated intranasally. In vaccinated animals the challenged virus was significantly cleared from the nasal passage and lungs. This vaccination study was conducted in pigs, a natural host of influenza viruses and thus have translational value.

Commercial Applicaitons

• Veterinary Medicine
• Medicine
• Pathology
• Vaccine development

Benefits/Advantages

• Translational to humans
• Improved safety over other types of vaccines