The drive to develop new prophylactic vaccines has resulted from the increase in impact of emerging diseases, bioterrorism and resistance to existing antimicrobials, as well as the apparent increased virulence of some viruses, such as influenza. Charles River Biopharmaceutical Services (BPS) is working with companies that develop vaccines by providing in vivo challenge studies in addition to its large portfolio of vaccine tests.
Model development involves the deliberate infection of a healthy host, allowing for a greater understanding of the infecting pathogen and the potency/efficacy of a product. Many ethical and safety considerations need to be addressed for such studies, and assessment is dependent on the pathogen, route of administration and host species. Charles River has experience working with antibiotics and antifungals. We have established an experimental model of vaginal candidiasis in rats. Other models can be established upon request. We also have experience with Medical Countermeasures (MCMs), including countermeasures for botulinum toxin in all seven serotypes.
Services
- Various models available
- In-house microbiology department
- Characterization of challenge material
- Exploratory studies with the isolate
- Evaluation of candidate antigens for bacterial challenge studies
- Viral challenge studies and adjuvant selection testing
- Use of individually ventilated cages (IVCs)
We are pleased to announce that we have recently expanded our Ballina, Ireland facility to offer more capacity and improved timelines for challenge studies and effective vaccine development. Click here to learn more and to view a video about the new facility.
To check which of our BPS facilities perform vaccine challenge studies, click here. For additional information, contact us at askcharlesriver@crl.com or 1.877.CRIVER.1.