Chickenpox can lead to serious health problems such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and secondary bacterial infections. Our company specializes in comprehensive vaccine and therapy development services for chickenpox.
Overview of Chickenpox
Chickenpox, also known as varicella, is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella zoster virus (VZV), a member of the herpesvirus family. Characterized by an itchy vesicular rash, fever, and malaise, chickenpox predominantly affects children but can also cause severe complications in adolescents and adults, particularly in immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women. The virus is transmitted via respiratory droplets and direct contact with the vesicular fluid from skin lesions.
Historically, chickenpox was considered a benign childhood illness; however, it can lead to serious complications such as bacterial superinfection, pneumonia, and encephalitis. The incidence of chickenpox varies globally, with higher rates typically observed in regions with lower vaccination coverage. Effective therapeutics and prevention strategies are crucial, especially in populations at risk of severe disease.
Fig.1 Data from the chickenpox study. (Latasa P., et al., 2018)
Vaccine Development for Chickenpox
Live Attenuated Vaccines
The first generation of chickenpox vaccines consisted of live attenuated strains of the VZV. The Oka strain, developed in the early 1970s, was the basis for the first licensed varicella vaccine. This vaccine, when introduced in the United States in 1995, marked a significant milestone in controlling the disease.
Recombinant Vaccines
With advancements in molecular biology, recombinant vaccines are being explored. These vaccines use specific viral genes or proteins to stimulate an immune response without the risk associated with live vaccines. Although still in developmental stages, they hold promise for safer and more targeted immunization strategies.
Combination Vaccines
The introduction of combination vaccines, such as the measles-mumps-rubella-varicella (MMRV) vaccine, has streamlined vaccination schedules. These vaccines offer the advantage of protecting against multiple diseases with a single dose, thus improving vaccination coverage rates and reducing the number of injections.
Therapeutics Development for Chickenpox
Antiviral Therapies
The cornerstone of chickenpox therapeutic involves antiviral drugs such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. These medications inhibit the replication of the VZV, reducing the severity and duration of the disease. Early administration, ideally within 24 hours of rash onset, is crucial for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
Immunoglobulin Therapy
VariZIG and similar immunoglobulin therapies provide passive immunity to individuals at high risk of complications, such as seronegative pregnant women exposed to VZV. These therapies are administered post-exposure to prevent or attenuate the disease.
Our Services
We focus on the entire spectrum of therapy development, from initial research through preclinical trials. Our dedicated team employs advanced methodologies to ensure that our vaccine and therapy candidates meet rigorous safety and efficacy standards. In our preclinical research services, we utilize cutting-edge technology and models to evaluate the immunogenicity and safety of our vaccine and therapy candidates.
Disease Models
- Guinea Pig Models: an attenuated strain of VZV
- Primate Models: VZV
- Small Animal Models: Rats and Rabbits
- SCID-hu Mouse Models
- Nonhuman Primate Models Infected with Simian Varicella Virus (SVV)
Through these services, we work to advance scientific understanding of varicella and strive to contribute to the development of vaccines and therapeutics for pharmaceutical companies around the world. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Latasa, Pello, et al. "Effectiveness and impact of a single-dose vaccine against chickenpox in the community of Madrid between 2001 and 2015." Human Vaccines & Immunotherapeutics 14.9 (2018): 2274-2280.
- Presti, Coralie Lo, et al. "Chickenpox: an update." Médecine et Maladies Infectieuses 49.1 (2019): 1-8.
- Parente, Serena, et al. "Management of chickenpox in pregnant women: an Italian perspective." European Journal of Clinical Microbiology & Infectious Diseases 37 (2018): 1603-1609.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
