SAIC Awards $60,000 to Evaluate Efficacy of Novel Sea Lice Vaccine Technology
A team of scientists has received funding from the Sustainable Aquaculture Innovation Centre (SAIC) to explore the effectiveness of a cutting-edge vaccine technology against sea lice. This initiative aims to tackle a significant challenge in the aquaculture industry, with the annual global cost of managing sea lice on salmon estimated at up to $1 billion.
Dr. Sean Monaghan, the lead researcher and lecturer at the University of Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture, highlights the potential of sea lice vaccination to revolutionize how the sector deals with this ecological concern. Various groups worldwide, including academic and pharmaceutical entities, are exploring the development of sea lice vaccines, with promising initial results.
The SAIC has granted nearly £50,000 (U.S. $63,135) to collaborators from the University of Stirling’s Institute of Aquaculture, AQUATRECK Animal Health SL, and Moredun Scientific following a successful proof-of-concept phase last year.
Heather Jones, CEO of SAIC, emphasizes the importance of innovative projects like this in enhancing fish health and welfare, areas of priority for the organization. Finding alternative treatments for sea lice can lead to significant benefits for the aquaculture industry, paving the way for a more sustainable and economically viable future.
Scientists are developing a new ‘groundbreaking’ oral vaccine for sea lice in farmed Atlantic salmon
In the next phase of the study, researchers will evaluate the efficacy of the novel vaccine technology against adult sea lice, building on earlier findings related to larval stages. The team utilizes advanced recombinant expression technology for injection vaccination, potentially enabling mass production for incorporation into salmon feed as an oral vaccine.
The vaccine formulation aims to stimulate an immune response and elevate antibody levels in fish bloodstream, hindering sea lice development and reproductive capabilities post-feeding on fish. Targeting mature lice could also reduce the parasite offspring population.
The development of vaccine technology often faces challenges in commercialization due to complexity and costs. However, the researchers have identified a promising approach for scaling up production using yeast expression technology, showcasing a viable route to market.
Dr. Monaghan underscores the significance of a vaccine-based solution for sea lice in the aquaculture sector, foreseeing positive impacts for fish, farmers, supply chains, and consumers globally. The ongoing project aims to validate the vaccine’s effectiveness in protecting Atlantic salmon against adult lice and contribute to building a robust scientific foundation.
Now that you’ve reached the end of the article …
… please consider supporting GSA’s mission to advance responsible seafood practices through education, advocacy and third-party assurances. The Advocate aims to document the evolution of responsible seafood practices and share the expansive knowledge of our vast network of contributors.
By becoming a Global Seafood Alliance member, you’re ensuring that all of the pre-competitive work we do through member benefits, resources and events can continue. Individual membership costs just $50 a year.
Not a GSA member? Join us.
mentioning the historic background of sea lice issues in aquaculture and the importance of finding sustainable solutions to address these challenges. The article emphasizes the collaborative efforts of researchers, academic institutions, and industry partners in developing innovative sea lice vaccination technology. Additionally, it highlights the potential benefits of this technology for fish health, welfare, and the overall sustainability of the aquaculture sector.
Read More Technology News
