Recombinant VSV as a platform for rabies vaccine development: Enhancing immunogenicity and safety

The research investigates the possibility of development of a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) expressing the rabies virus glycoprotein as a novel rabies vaccine. The recombinant VSV can show robust immunogenicity, eliciting strong virus-neutralizing antibody responses in both mice and dogs. The oral vaccine formulation proved stable in simulated gastric conditions and induced immune responses comparable to intramuscular injection. Long-term immunity studies indicated high antibody levels and protection against rabies virus challenge at six months and one-year post-immunization, suggesting potential for durable immunity, particularly in dogs. Toxicity studies can be used to analyze adverse effects, confirming the vaccine’s safety. The potential for the recombinant VSV vaccine to induce mucosal immunity and spread through social behaviours in wildlife populations presents a promising approach for rabies control. However, challenges such as ensuring genetic stability and evaluating environmental impacts must be addressed. This research highlights the recombinant VSV-based vaccine’s promise as an effective, safe, and potentially self-disseminating tool for rabies prevention, with implications for both human and veterinary applications.