A Cluster for tuberculosis vaccine developement - TB VACCINE CLUSTER

The overall objective of the Cluster is to establish a framework for preclinical development of novel tuberculosis vaccine candidates. We aim to identify optimal strategies for generation of vaccine candidates by comparing innovative approaches based on identification of novel protein antigens, characterisation of non-protein antigens that elicit T cell responses in man, and construction of live attenuated strains of mycobacteria. New vaccines will be compared alone or in combination in standardised experimental challenge models to identify candidates superior to the existing BCG vaccine. In parallel, the immunological mechanisms underlying vaccine-induced protection will be characterised in man and in experimental models. This information will be used to develop immunological tests for initial clinical asse ssment of new vaccines. Integration of these activites, with the participation of the top academic and industrial researchers in Europe (Aventis Pasteur, SmithKline Beecham and the Statens Serum Institut), is essential for completion of the final goal of bringing one or more new vaccines to a stage suitable for clinical trials.