SEO Riders:
- – ILRI unveils reverse-genetics platform to fast-track ASFV vaccines in Africa
- – Region-specific ASFV genotypes demand custom vaccines for effective pig protection
- – New biology tools bring hope to vulnerable smallholder farmers facing ASF crises
Scientists from the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) and collaborating institutions have developed a cutting-edge “synthetic genomics–based ASFV engineering platform” — a reverse-genetics system that accelerates the development of region-specific vaccines for African swine fever virus (ASFV). Given the intricate genetic diversity of ASFV strains across the continent and the absence of effective vaccines, this innovation offers a promising route to protect pig populations and support livestock-dependent communities.ASFV—deadly and highly contagious—poses a major global threat to the swine industry and smallholder food security, with mortality rates nearly hitting 100% in infected herds. Traditional control methods rely heavily on animal culling, making vaccine innovation urgent for Africa’s diverse viral outbreaks.
Researchers emphasize that ASFV’s complex immune evasion tactics and genomic variability across regions make universal vaccines inadequate. Tailored vaccine approaches, informed by local ASFV genotypes and supported by advanced genetic engineering tools, promise safer, more effective responses to outbreaks.
