Vaccine Design

We will modify existing methods of genome transplantation used for Mycoplasma species. The major challenge in the transplantation procedure is to avoid the destruction of the incoming genome by the specific endonucleases expressed in the recipient cell. Although in MycoSynVac we will work only with strains whose genome has been sequenced, we will develop a pipeline that could be used for any new strain or target species. Adhesins play a crucial role in the primary steps employed by Mycoplasmas while interacting with their host eukaryotic cells using specific mammalian membrane receptors. The physical association of Mycoplasmas with the host cell surface is the basis for the development and persistence of disease, as well as for triggering an immune response. We will do a genome comparison analysis of available Mycoplasma species to identify all putative adhesin genes, and then select those from two target Mycoplasma species. We will replace the main M. pneumoniae adhesins by the counterparts from the three species and test the adhesion and infection properties in in vitro cell culture and/or tracheal assays. Using the genome engineering tools, we will clone and surface-express the selected chimaeric proteins and adjuvants in the chassis. We will then check by western and immunofluorescence if these are recognized by the serum of infected animals.