Ancestral scaffold antigens as a resilient technology for fast response to viruses and pandemics

Purpose and goal:

The main goal of the project is to validate a unique data-driven approach based on the generation of stable ancestral antigen building blocks (AnSAs) to combat disease. We will validate AnSAs as a resilient synthetic biology platform to combat pathogens and enable rapid response against new betacoronaviruses and variants.

Expected results and effects:

A "reverse-forward" protein engineering technology that takes a step towards universal vaccines and can be generally applicable to fight various emerging viruses and respond to future pandemics. Our strategy is compatible with both protein- and mRNA-based vaccines. Approach and implementation:

Validate (TRL3) AnSAs as a versatile synthetic biology platform to combat pathogens and enable rapid response against new viruses and variants. This will be achieved by bridging sequence-based protein design (KTH, Syrén) with immunology (KI, Pan-Hammarström).