Trivalent MDCK cell culture-derived influenza vaccine Optaflu^®(Novartis Vaccines)

Abstract

Annual influenza epidemics continue to have a considerable impact in both developed and developing countries. Vaccination remains the principal measure to prevent seasonal influenza and reduce associated morbidity and mortality. The WHO recommends using established mammalian cell culture lines as an alternative to egg-based substrates in the manufacture of influenza vaccine. In June 2007, the EMEA approved Optaflu, a Madin Darby canine kidney cell culture-derived influenza vaccine manufactured by Novartis Vaccines. This review examines the advantages and disadvantages of cell culture-based technology for influenza vaccine production, compares immunogenicity and safety data for Optaflu with that of currently marketed conventional egg-based influenza vaccines, and considers the prospects for wider use of cell culture-based influenza vaccines.

Vaccines: the Fourth Century

“…Transformation through transfection with the adenovirus 5 E1 gene appears to be safe and allows the cultivation of agents that are ordinarily difficult to replicate in vitro. Among the cell lines that are receiving the most attention are Madin-Darby canine kidney cells (30), HEK293 and PerC6 human retinal cells (65,113), and Spodoptera frugiperda insect cells (24).…”

High yields of influenza A virus in Madin-Darby canine kidney cells are promoted by an insufficient interferon-induced antiviral state

“…Additionally, cell culture-based influenza vaccine production is becoming increasingly important as an alternative to eggbased processes (Ulmer et al, 2006;Audsley & Tannock, 2008;. Recently, an MDCK cell culture-derived influenza vaccine has been approved by the European Medicines Agency (Doroshenko & Halperin, 2009). This cell culture-based bioprocess has become one focus of our research.…”

All-in-One Bacmids: an Efficient Reverse Genetics Strategy for Influenza A Virus Vaccines

“…A robust implementation of the system consists of 8 plasmids, with each viral cDNA cloned under the control of promoters running in opposite directions (13,33,34). Although RG provides an easier method for the generation of vaccine seed stocks, the vaccine virus itself is ultimately propagated by using the traditional egg method or tissue culture cells (35,36). The manufacture of influenza vaccines requires approximately 8 months.…”