Vaccine Assessment Laboratory
Immunology group
The Aeras Immunology Group assesses the immune response induced by candidate vaccines in pre-clinical animal models as well as in clinical trial specimens. Standard technologies include cell-mediated-immunity assays such as Intracellular Cytokine Staining by flow cytometry, ELISAs and staining for antigen-specific CD8 T-cells with tetramers.
Our Research & Development Department focuses on the development, optimization and ultimate validation of methods applicable to our vaccine evaluation.
Vaccine Evaluation Group
The Aeras Vaccine Evaluation Group performs assessment of vaccines pre- and post-manufacturing to assure the phenotypic character of the strain has been maintained. The group produces recombinant TB proteins for use in strain evaluation, immune response assays, and for use by collaborators.
Animal Studies Group
The Aeras Animal Studies Group designs animal models to evaluate the immunogenicity and/or protective efficacy of vaccine candidates and vaccination regimens. Assessment of cellular and humoral immune responses by a variety of techniques is used to determine vaccine efficacy. Finally, candidates are further evaluated for the ability to protect against a challenge with virulent M. tuberculosis, Erdman strain K01. We accomplish our goals by collaborating with academic institutions, commercial ventures, and government researchers and facilities around the world.
We wish to emphasize that we ensure that all animal studies we undertake are performed to the highest ethical standards, and all animal facilities are operated in accordance with all relevant guidelines for the compassionate care and use of laboratory animals.
Aeras welcomes enquires on collaborative opportunities with the Aeras Animal Studies Group to evaluate new TB vaccines and to share our knowledge in TB animal model development.