One Health Approach to Combating the EG.5 Variant: Dr. Tian Wang's Groundbreaking Research

By: Mohanad Albayyaa, MD

As the world continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists are working tirelessly to develop effective vaccines against the virus and its evolving variants. Dr. Tian Wang, a professor at the University of Texas Medical Branch and a director of the NIAID T35 Infectious Diseases and Inflammatory Disorder Training Program, is leading groundbreaking efforts to formulate vaccines against the latest coronavirus strain EG.5. Her innovative strategies, encompassing both subunit and live-attenuated vaccines, consider the implications for both animal and human populations, acknowledging the shared health risks posed by emerging variants.

Dr. Wang and her team are exploring two promising vaccine platforms to address the challenges presented by emerging variants and enhance vaccine potency and durability. A modified porous silicon microparticle (mPSM) as an adjuvant for a SARS-CoV-2 subunit vaccine and a second noteworthy project revolves around a live-attenuated vaccine envisioned as a potential booster for individuals previously vaccinated with mRNA vaccines. These initiatives have been made possible through the generous support of a fast grant from Emergent Ventures at the Mercatus Center and a 5-year R01 award from NIH/NIAID.

Preliminary results from animal models have been encouraging. The mPSM-adjuvanted subunit vaccine has been shown to induce strong and long-lasting immune responses against SARS-CoV-2, including against the EG.5 variant.¹ The live-attenuated vaccine has also been shown to be effective in boosting immunity in animals that have previously been vaccinated with mRNA vaccines.² Special adjuvants in subunit vaccines are strategically used to trigger robust innate immunity and prompt enduring and potent systemic and mucosal immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 in animal models, resulting in resilient and long-lasting immune responses.^1,2

Dr. Wang's research extends beyond the development of specific vaccines; it also encompasses a thorough assessment of their safety profile and potential efficacy impact. This research on EG.5 vaccine development, utilizing animal models, is pivotal for advancing epidemiological knowledge by addressing disease prevention in animal and human populations, and it significantly contributes to the protection of global health.

The interdisciplinary nature of Dr. Wang's team further exemplifies the One Health philosophy. Her research team includes scientists from a variety of disciplines, and this collaboration has been essential for tackling complex health challenges and advancing vaccine development. Dr. Tian Wang's innovative research, characterized by advanced strategies and interdisciplinary commitment, is shaping a safer and healthier future.

References:

1. Adam, A., Shi, Q., Wang, B., Zou, J., Mai, J., Osman, S. R., ... & Wang, T. (2022). A modified porous silicon microparticle potentiates protective systemic and mucosal immunity for SARS-CoV-2 subunit vaccine. Translational Research, 249, 13-27.
2. Adam, A., Kalveram, B., Chen, J. Y. C., Yeung, J., Rodriguez, L., Singh, A., ... & Wang, T. (2023). A single-dose of intranasal vaccination with a live-attenuated SARS-CoV-2 vaccine candidate promotes protective mucosal and systemic immunity.  bioRxiv, 2023-04.