Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) has four genotypes, with MCV-1 being the most prevalent. Transmission occurs through direct skin contact, autoinoculation, and potentially contaminated fomites. Our company provides a wide range of services dedicated to expediting the advancement of vaccines and therapies for molluscum contagiosum.
Introduction to Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum (MC), also known as water warts, is a highly prevalent viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), a member of the Poxviridae family. This self-limiting disease predominantly affects children, sexually active adults, and immunocompromised individuals, with an estimated worldwide prevalence of up to 8.28% in the pediatric population.
The MCV infects the epidermal layer of the skin, replicating within the cytoplasm of host cells. Intriguingly, the virus has evolved sophisticated mechanisms to evade the host's immune response, such as modulating the activation of the nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) pathway, a critical regulator of inflammatory processes.
Fig.1 Dermatoscopic findings of molluscum contagiosum (MC). (Meza-Romero R., et al., 2019)
Vaccine Development for Molluscum Contagiosum
Viral Vector Vaccines
Viral vector vaccines utilize a harmless virus to deliver MCV genes into the host, prompting the production of viral proteins that stimulate an immune response. This approach has shown promise in preclinical studies, with the potential for strong cellular and humoral immunity.
DNA and RNA Vaccines
Nucleic acid vaccines, including DNA and RNA vaccines, involve the direct introduction of genetic material encoding MCV proteins into the host. This strategy has the advantage of inducing both innate and adaptive immune responses. Current research is directed towards optimizing delivery methods and enhancing the stability of the nucleic acids.
Therapeutics Development for Molluscum Contagiosum
Antiviral Agents
The development of antiviral agents against MCV is an active area of research. These agents, such as cidofovir, target specific viral enzymes or pathways to inhibit viral replication. The challenge lies in optimizing the therapeutic index to minimize side effects.
Immunotherapies
Immunomodulatory drugs, such as imiquimod, work by activating the host's immune system to enhance the clearance of molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). These therapies are particularly useful in patients with weakened immune responses.
Topical Therapies
Topical therapies, including cantharidin and potassium hydroxide, are widely used for their ability to cause local destruction of lesions. Research continues to refine these formulations for improved efficacy and reduced irritation.
Our Services
At our esteemed organization, we are renowned for our all-encompassing range of services focused on propelling the progress of MC vaccine and therapeutic development. Our team of multidisciplinary experts boasts specialized knowledge across diverse domains of the drug and vaccine development continuum.
- MCV Infection Animal Models
- Customized Animal Models
Optional Species: mouse (BALB/c mouse and C57BL/6 mouse), rat, non-primate
Optional Viruses: vDA49, vMC159 and vMC160
By combining our scientific expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and a deep understanding of the Molluscum Contagiosum landscape, we are uniquely positioned to accelerate the development of transformative solutions. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us.
References
- Meza-Romero, Rodrigo, Cristián Navarrete-Dechent, and Camila Downey. "Molluscum contagiosum: an update and review of new perspectives in etiology, diagnosis, and treatment." Clinical, cosmetic and investigational dermatology (2019): 373-381.
- Biswas, Sunetra, et al. "A comparison of the effect of molluscum contagiosum virus MC159 and MC160 proteins on vaccinia virus virulence in intranasal and intradermal infection routes." Journal of General Virology 99.2 (2018): 246-252.
- Hebert, Adelaide A., Neal Bhatia, and James Q. Del Rosso. "Molluscum contagiosum: epidemiology, considerations, treatment options, and therapeutic gaps." The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology 16.8 Suppl 1 (2023): S4.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use
only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
