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Researchers from the J. Craig Venter Institute (JCVI), the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute (FLI), and the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI) have developed a synthetic genomics-based reverse genetics system for African swine fever virus (ASFV). This breakthrough provides a powerful new tool for vaccine development and in-depth study of the virus's pathogenesis and biology, which is crucial given ASFV’s devastating impact on domesticated and wild pigs across Africa, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.
Using synthetic DNA and advanced gene-editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9, the system enables scientists to create genetically modified versions of ASFV. Synthetic DNA fragments of the virus are assembled in yeast, transferred to E. coli for large-scale isolation, and then introduced into mammalian cells alongside a self-helper virus—a weakened, non-replicating form of ASFV. This helper virus provides the necessary machinery for replicating and assembling live recombinant viruses, which can then be studied or used to develop vaccines.
JCVI professor Sanjay Vashee noted, “By developing a synthetic genomics-based reverse genetics system for ASFV, we are... creating tools that can be applied to other emerging viral threats.” A recent study estimates that if ASFV reaches the United States, it could result in economic losses exceeding $50 billion over a ten-year period.
Hussein Abkallo, a researcher at ILRI emphasized the platform’s significance for Africa, where ASFV’s multiple genotypes and limited biosecurity make the virus especially challenging. He remarked, “This platform gives hope of developing new, targeted vaccines that can protect animal health to reduce mortality as well as the environmental footprint of the livestock sector by preventing unnecessary losses."
This methodology could also be adapted for emerging RNA viruses such as Zika, chikungunya, Mayaro, and Ebola viruses, which have caused significant outbreaks and pose serious threats to global health offering new avenues for vaccine and antiviral development against emerging global threats.
www.ilri.org
