Breakthrough in TB Vaccine: Gene-Editing Technology Promises Higher Efficacy

Researchers at the University of the Witwatersrand have gene-edited the BCG vaccine to improve its efficacy against tuberculosis. The modified vaccine showed promising results in mice, indicating potential for a more effective TB vaccine. Further studies are needed to adapt this new version for human use.

Researchers at the University of the Witwatersrand School of Pathology have made a significant breakthrough in tuberculosis (TB) vaccine development using gene-editing technology. By modifying the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine, which is over 100 years old, they have enhanced its effectiveness.

Microbiologist Bavesh Kana explained that the gene-editing process involved using CRISPR to alter the BCG bacterium so it could no longer hide a key marker from the immune system. This modified vaccine has shown to better limit tuberculosis growth in mice.

This breakthrough offers hope for a new TB vaccine candidate in the fight against one of the world's most infectious bacterial diseases. Further studies are underway to adapt the vaccine for human application, and the findings indicate a wider potential for developing more effective vaccines for other diseases.

(With inputs from agencies.)