Development and Characterization of a Universal Dual Action Vaccine Against COVID-19 Variants and Influenza Virus

COVID-19 and Influenza virus disease (the flu) are both deadly respiratory diseases. Despite the availability of flu and COVID-19 vaccines, these diseases still pose a serious threat to human health, because different types of their strains are in circulation. In addition to the need of urgent production of both COVID-19 and influenza universal vaccine, development of a dual action vaccine is inevitable. To this end, we have developed a novel vaccine that can help to produce robust and broad immune responses needed to prevent flu and COVID-19 simultaneously by activating the virus-eating cells in the body known as the macrophages and dendritic cells (DC). In this study, we will investigate if the vaccine could neutralize all variants of SARS-CoV-2 and protect these variants and influenza strains from lethal infections. This study provides a novel technology for vaccine development to our partner organization for marketing plus opportunity to train intern entrepreneurship.

Faculty Supervisor:

Xiaojian Yao

Student:

Partner:

North Forge

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education; Management of companies and enterprises; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Manitoba

Program: