Course will critically discuss the use of animal models in vaccine development with special emphasis on less commonly used animal models.
The following topics will be covered by lectures followed by discussions on questions and cases raised by participants (draft program).

Day 1 (20 Oct 2022):

Introduction (15 minutes)

Intrinsic value of models, from organoids to non-human primate (30 minutes)

Aspects of physiology and immunology of “un-usual” animal species and types used as animal models (incl. pathogen/host biology/justification of species):
o Non-human primates
o Swine
o Guinea pigs
o Ferrets

Lunch

I. Concepts of model validity and translational aspects

o General concepts of animal models
- Aspects of pre-clinical studies for success in clinical vaccine studies,
- Different approaches to vaccine development studies and pharmacology studies.
- Are target animal models valid for the veterinary field?
- Are humans good models for humans?

Break

o A standardised framework to identify optimal animal models

Group discussion on choice of models for SARS Cov2 “ Did we make the right choices?”

Day 2 (21 Oct 2022)

Aspects of pre-clinical Study design
o General aspects
o Synthesis of evidence vs systemic review
o Vaccination study specific aspects, e.g. right prime-boost regimen for different vaccines

Coffee break

o Adjuvants aspects (innate immune response, specific immune responses)

Discussion, Q&A, cases and presentations by participants

Lunch

Use and validity of specific models, Case studies, presentations by participants or on basis of
o Chlamydia
o TB
o RSV
o Influenza

Closing/Farewell