Role in the TRANSVAC project
The Jenner Institute (University of Oxford) will participate in three areas of TRANVAC2: Firstly, it will develop optimised viral vectors suitable for expressing antigens from a range of different diseases, to create novel vaccines. The vectors used are replication-incompetent Adenovirus or MVA (Modified Vaccinia Ankara), usually used in combination as a prime-boost dosing strategy. Both vectors induce high levels of antibody and T cell responses. Virally vectored vaccines expressing novel antigens will be provided as TNA activities. Secondly, the Jenner will develop its transcriptomics core facility to carry out RNAseq analysis of clinical samples (both blood and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid) from trials with novel TB, malaria and Ebola vaccines. Bioinformatics analysis is a particular strength at the Jenner, and will be offered as part of the TNA activities. Thirdly, the Jenner runs three vaccinology courses annually, two in Oxford and one in Africa. Places on the Oxford courses will be offered as part of the TRANSVAC2 training workpackage. The Oxford courses specialise in vaccine biomanufacturing, clinical development, and human/veterinary vaccinology.