A framework for production and testing next generation vaccines against non-polio enteroviruses

Non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) are common pathogens with >280 virus serotypes that can infect humans. Examples of NPEVs include rhinoviruses, EV-D68 and EV71.

NPEVs have major medical and socio-economic impact; Rhinoviruses cause the common cold, which accounts for a large proportion of disease-related work absences.

Other NPEVs are associated with severe diseases including polio-like disorders, cardiomyopathy, aseptic meningitis, and type 1 diabetes. Recent outbreaks of EV-D68 and EV71 have caused severe neurological disease and deaths. New NPEVs are likely to emerge in the coming years.

Despite their propensity to cause large outbreaks leading to cases of severe disease, only one NPEV vaccine is available for clinical use and antivirals are not available. Thereby, preparedness for NPEV outbreaks and pandemics is poor.

This novel and multidisciplinary research program will make a significant contribution in this area; we use advanced technologies and rational design to produce and test 2nd generation VLP-based NPEV vaccines.

By studying natural- and vaccine induced immunity via immunopeptidomics screens and in silico analyses, we will also generate critical information for vaccine efficacy testing and improvements of vaccine design. The project has a 3-year duration.

By establishing this powerful platform, our studies have a clear translational potential and will strongly contribute to better preparedness for future (re)emerging NPEV outbreaks and pandemics.