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This technology focuses on the creation of single-component AMA1-RON2 (Apical membrane antigen 1-rhoptry neck protein 2) vaccine candidates. These candidates are based on a novel composition of matter designed to elicit a more effective immune response against the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. The standout aspect of this technology is the Structure-Based Design 1 (SBD1) immunogen, engineered through a structure-based design that significantly enhances its ability to produce potent, strain-transcending neutralizing antibodies.

NIAID scientists have developed plasmids that allow for production of pseudoviruses expressing SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. As SARS-CoV-2 is a lethal airborne virus, it must be handled in high-containment Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratories that require strict airflow, ventilation and decontamination procedures.

LAD2 and LADR cell lines are invaluable tools in mast cell research, offering insights into mastocytosis and immune responses. Derived from CD34+ cells, LAD2 cells have been extensively used for over 18 years, while LADR cells, a newer variant, exhibit enhanced characteristics such as larger size, increased granulation, and faster doubling time. Both cell lines release granular contents upon FceRI aggregation and can be infected with various strains of HIV. LADR cells, in particular, show greater expression of certain surface receptors and mRNA compared to LAD2 cells.

The technology involves the genetic engineering of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) to express two additional genes, green fluorescent protein (GFP) and Renilla luciferase, from different positions within the viral genome. GFP serves as a visual marker for RSV infection, allowing researchers to monitor and track infected cells using fluorescence microscopy, while luciferase functions as a highly sensitive reporter gene that enables quantitative assessment of viral replication through enzymatic assays.

The technology involves genetically engineering Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV) to express enhanced green fluorescent protein (GFP), enabling the monitoring of virus infection and gene expression through GFP fluorescence. This system serves as a sensitive and versatile tool for virology research, antiviral drug screening, and diagnostic applications.

In this technology, researchers have engineered a modified version of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) strain A2 using reverse genetics to incorporate green fluorescent protein (GFP) into the first-gene position. This genetic modification allows for the efficient monitoring of RSV infection and the screening of potential chemical inhibitors. The GFP expression can be easily detected through fluorescence microscopy in live or fixed cells, providing a sensitive tool for both research and drug discovery.

The technology described is a sophisticated and high-throughput luciferase immunoprecipitation system (LIPS) assay designed to detect antibodies specific to Varicella-zoster virus (VZV) glycoprotein E (gE). By transfecting cells with VZV protein-Renilla luciferase fusion protein constructs and subsequently performing immunoprecipitations with protein A/G beads, this innovative assay enables the quantitative measurement of VZV gE antibody levels in blood serum samples.

This technology represents a significant advancement in the field of rabies prevention, focusing on the development of highly potent rabies-neutralizing monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for use in postexposure prophylaxis (PEP). With two mAbs, F2 and G5a, displaying exceptional neutralizing titers of 1154 and 3462 International Units (IUs) per milligram, respectively, these antibodies have the potential to offer enhanced protection against rabies when administered alongside rabies vaccines.

The technology focuses on the development of a tetravalent bispecific antibody effective against Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium responsible for anthrax. This antibody combines the specificities of two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs): one targeting anthrax protective antigen (PA) and the other targeting the bacterial capsule. The anti-PA mAb shows potent toxin-neutralizing activity, while the anti-capsule mAb efficiently kills anthrax bacteria.

The HEK293T/T7 cell line is a novel development in virology research, particularly for studying human noroviruses. This cell line expresses the T7 RNA polymerase, a key enzyme used in reverse genetics systems. Unlike existing technologies, the HEK293T/T7 cell line offers the unique advantage of being able to produce functional T7 RNA polymerase, which is essential for driving transcription from T7 promoters.