Live attenuated chimeric vaccine targeting PCV2b in swine
This technology is a genetically engineered vaccine for pigs that targets Porcine Circovirus Type 2 (PCV2), a widespread virus causing significant economic loss in the pork industry. Researchers created a 'chimeric' virus by taking a harmless version of the virus (PCV1) and swapping in the outer shell proteins of the dangerous version (PCV2b). This allows the pig's immune system to recognize and learn to fight the actual disease-causing virus without ever being exposed to the full, virulent pathogen. Because it uses the specific '2b' subtype currently dominant in global pig populations, it offers more precise protection than older vaccines.
What you could build
A live-attenuated or inactivated injectable vaccine for swine, sold to commercial hog farmers and veterinary distributors to prevent PCVAD outbreaks.
Who in Virginia should care
Virginia's significant pork production industry, including major global headquarters like Smithfield Foods, would directly benefit from improved swine herd health and vaccine efficacy.
Readiness: Prototype likely
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- XIANG-JIN MENG, NATHAN M. BEACH, SHEELA RAMAMOORTHY
- Granted
- March 7, 2017
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 9585951
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.