Sydney researchers test tuberculosis vaccine combination for COVID 19 - News - The University of Sydney

Using the TB vaccine as a vehicle

In BCG:CoVac, the BCG vaccine is used as a vehicle to deliver distinctive proteins that originate from the SARS-CoV-2 virus surface. The goal is for the human immune system to develop a memory of SARS-CoV-2 and develop immunity.

There is currently global interest in the BCG vaccine, which is being investigated in ongoing clinical trials as a possible intervention to protect vulnerable people during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is because of suggestions the BCG vaccine has other beneficial effects on the immune system that could protect against other infections. A 2019 observational study reported the vaccine is related to fewer deaths from certain infections other than from TB in low-income countries.

However, current COVID-19 related studies only investigate the protective effects of the BCG vaccine by itself.

Dr Claudio Counoupas, research scientist at the Centenary Institute and co-lead on the project, said: “Combining a part of the SARS-CoV-2 virus with BCG is key to this new vaccine.”

“This provides a specific ‘memory’ immune response against the virus that could provide long-term protection against disease. Our on-going studies will determine how long the  immune response lasts after vaccination in animal models. This is important information for future human testing of our vaccine.”

Professor Triccas said animal studies were necessary to ensure the vaccine is inducing the right type of immune response.

“These are critical before moving any candidate vaccine into human clinical trials.”