IIT-Bhubaneswar, ILS innovate next-gen tuberculosis vaccine HSP 16.3 DC4

A major scientific breakthrough has emerged from Bhubaneswar as a new tuberculosis (TB)-preventive vaccine is set to provide stronger protection than existing options. The Institute of Life Sciences (ILS), under BRIC, has developed a novel vaccine named HSP 16.3 DC4, offering the potential to significantly boost immunity against TB.

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This was informed by the ILS and IIT-Bhubaneswar sources on Monday.

Currently, BCG is the only approved vaccine for tuberculosis, widely used for children and adults. However, experts acknowledge that its protective efficacy is limited, especially in preventing adult pulmonary TB. The new vaccine aims to overcome these limitations and provide next-generation protection for future populations.

Development of this vaccine was supported technically by IIT-Bhubaneswar. The formula and technology behind HSP 16.3 DC4 have already been transferred to the vaccine manufacturing institutions, and pharmaceutical companies showing interest will take up production.

Preclinical trials on mice have demonstrated successful outcomes. The vaccine not only enhances disease-fighting capability but also strengthens both cellular and humoral immune responses, offering continued defence against pulmonary pathogens.

This innovation marks a significant step forward in India's efforts to combat tuberculosis and could become a vital component of public health protection in the years ahead.

“A joint team of the scientists of both ILS and IIT-Bhubaneswar had carried out a pre-clinical trial of the vaccine candidate. After the success of which the industry has come forward to find out ways how the technology can be utilised for further advancement,” ILS Director, Dr. Debasis Dash, said in a presser.

“ILS and IIT scientists have developed a vaccine candidate, and the technology is now being transferred to TechInvention Lifecare Ltd (a private company). The company, in turn, will take the know-how further and go for a commercial production of vaccine,” Director of IIT-Bhubaneswar, Professor Shreepad Karmalkar, stated.

Reported By: Simpul Nayak