Search

The purpose of this review is to carry out an overall evaluation of the scientific literature on the selection of the best candidate as an animal translation model. We used the PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection and medRxiv/BioRxiv (preprint materials) databases for original research published in English to September 2020. Review research was conducted in accordance with the preferred reporting elements for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA). The inclusion criteria were: establishing animal models (mouse, ferret, dog, cat, primates, etc.) for SARSCoV-2, prophylaxis, therapy and vaccines. The exclusion criteria were: books, guidelines and protocols, population genetics. This review highlights the distinct advantages and limitations of each animal model, which should be taken into account in the design of studies, the interpretation of pathogenic mechanisms or extrapolation of the results of therapy or vaccines in humans. In order to generate results that are consistent, reproducible and comparable between studies, it is necessary to harmonize the protocols for experimentation on animal models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the main concerns of the medical community during the COVID-19 pandemic has been the management of the immunosuppression accompanying the disease, particularly in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) patients. More recently, the focus has shifted towards the management of the persistent immunosuppression post-acute COVID-19 and its complications. The rate of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) had been declining before the pandemic, but has since started to increase once more. Due to multiple factors - unnecessary antibiotherapy, disorganized medical facilities, inadequate personal protection equipment etc. - there have been increasing reports of coinfections and secondary infections with multidrug-resistant bacteria in COVID-19 patients. We present a case report of a patient with no history of clinically overt immunosuppression before developing critical SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia. The patient had no need for antibiotic treatment during his hospitalization and was discharged in a stable state, being consequently readmitted multiple times for different healthcare-associated multidrug-resistant infections, over time developing other hospital-related complications. The case raises a discussion about the bidirectional relationship between post-COVID immunosuppression and the possible inadvertent excess in antibiotic therapy that has accompanied the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection, the identification of a vaccine has become vital for stopping the pandemic. The consortium formed by the OncoGen Center and the Cantacuzino Institute (CI) evaluates a candidate vaccine whose vaccine component is represented by a combination of peptides specifically recognized by the 2 components of the adaptative immune system. Each new vaccine must undergo mandatory tests, even if they are currently accelerated or overlapping, with the consent of the European Medicines Agency (EMA). One of the tests relates to repeated dose toxicity. The aim was to setup a protocol for repeated dose toxicity testing in rats, the results of which would allow the transition to the clinical phase I dossier. The protocol was designed based on EMA guidelines for vaccine safety testing and rat-human translation. The proposed human dose, route of administration and repeat administration were taken into account. Clinical signs, immunological and biochemical parameters will be analysed. Histological examination will be performed on 34 organs. The protocol was approved by the ethics committee of the CI and authorized by the competent authority. In order to evaluate the repeated dose toxicity of a vaccine candidate against COVID-19, we propose a robust, replicable, effective and translational study protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]