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Genomic sequence of a newly discovered nairovirus for the development of vaccines and post-exposure therapies

Summary

Tick borne viruses pose serious threats to the health of both humans and livestock. Left untreated, the spread of these viral infections can create a significant burden on the healthcare system and reduce the profitability of commercial livestock operations. This technology provides the complete genomic sequence of a newly discovered nairovirus called South Bay Virus, detected in as many as 20% of all mature ticks. The virus is understood to be highly contagious. The genomic information for the virus is critical for developing an effective vaccine and post-exposure therapies. Adequate development of this technology could furnish a vaccine for use in humans or livestock that greatly reduces the morbidity associated with infection, reducing the burden on the healthcare system and increasing the profitability of livestock enterprises.

Technology Benefits

Complete genomic DNA for the S and L segments gives an extensive characterization of this virusIs genetically dissimilar from previously known nairoviruses, making it a unique targetHigh transmission rate among lice with broad geographic distribution, and the resulting threat to human and animal health, make this virus a potentially lucrative targetPatent Information:Patent Pending WO/2016/022958Tech Ventures Reference: IR CU14095

Technology Application

Generating vaccines for human or livestock use against South Bay VirusDeveloping effective post-exposure therapiesGenetic information can be used to study the pathogenicity and transmission of South Bay Virus in a laboratory setting

Detailed Technology Description

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*Abstract

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*Inquiry

Ron KatzColumbia Technology VenturesTel: (212) 854-8444Email: TechTransfer@columbia.edu

*IR

cu14095

*Principal Investigator

*Publications

Tokarz, R., Williams, S.H., Sameroff, S., Leon, S.L. Jain, K., Lipkin, W.I. "Virome analysis of Amblyomma americanum, Dermacentor variabilis, and Ixodes scapularis Ticks reveals novel highly divergent vertebrate and invertebrate viruses" J. Virology. 2014 October ;88(19):11480-11492.

Country/Region

USA