Over recent years, global vaccine development has notably intensified in life sciences. This boom is mainly attributable to the development of the COVID-19 vaccines and the rapid advancement in mRNA technology. These developments represent a paradigm shift in how we approach complex diseases, defend against pathogens, and train immune cells to combat cancer. At Scantox, we support vaccine development and offer tailored vaccine CRO services that bridge the gap from preclinical discoveries to clinical evaluations.
Exploring Vaccine Potential with Advanced Animal Models
Our contribution is clear: providing relevant animal disease models and specialized services for preclinical evaluation of vaccines against infectious diseases and cancer. Animal models are a cornerstone in evaluating vaccine safety and efficacy. They replicate human immune responses and help to understand the immune system’s multifaceted role in disease.
We have experience working with live/attenuated, subunit, and nucleic acid-based vaccines in all rodent species, as well as ferrets, rabbits, and mini-pigs. Our advanced vivariums allow pathogens to be handled up to Biosafety Level 3 (BSL3).
Recognizing the dual pressures of precision and speed faced by translational research directors, we offer reproducible and flexible service models:
- Ready-to-go models: They are specific to virology (e.g., SARS-CoV-2 in hACE2 transgenic mice, Golden Syrian hamster, and ferret) and bacteriology (e.g., infected wounds, urinary tract infections) and are available immediately for testing.
- Customized models: These are tailored to specific vaccine development needs. Sponsors can choose from various animal species and dosing routes. Additionally, we collaborate closely with clients to determine the appropriate host species and analysis methods based on the vaccine’s characteristics.
Comprehensive Vaccine CRO Services: From Immunogenicity to Efficacy and Safety
Comprehensive immunogenicity studies form the heart of our vaccine CRO services. These tests assess immune responses post-vaccination, helping to tailor development plans to each vaccine’s unique requirements. By measuring the humoral antibody response (ELISA) and the cell-mediated T-cell response (ELISpot), we address key questions such as:
- Does the vaccine enhance immunity without causing harmful hyperinflammatory reactions?
- Is it effective across different doses?
- Does it trigger specific immune responses through various delivery methods?
Building on the insights, we proceed to efficacy or challenge studies ranging from small pilot projects to extensive trials. These studies are crucial for mimicking natural infections and assessing a vaccine’s effectiveness, providing critical data for first-in-human trials.
Once challenge and protection studies are complete, we can proceed with regulatory toxicology studies to assess vaccine safety following the WHO Technical Report Series No. 927, Annex 1 guidelines. We adhere to the strictest Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards. These studies include Maximum Tolerated Dose (MTD) and Dose Range Finding (DRF), followed by detailed general toxicity assessments. These evaluations cover everything from health status and body temperature to more thorough checks like ophthalmoscopy and full histopathology, ensuring comprehensive safety profiling of vaccine candidates.
Improving Outcomes Through Commitment
Vaccine development is complex. Thus, it is essential to have a trusted partner who provides disease-specific guidance and strategic support. With years of combined experience in immunology and infectious diseases, our scientists guide you through all preclinical stages with a deep understanding of your vaccine development and broader business objectives. Our approach is based on close collaboration because we believe that mutual feedback is crucial to the success of a project. This commitment transforms fast and informed engagement into tangible client benefits, such as quick study approvals, rapid initiation, and keeping your project on schedule.
We invite vaccine developers to discover how our scientists can advance your vaccine research. Please schedule a consultation with our experts, or follow us on social media for the latest scientific updates and insights.
