The mRNA vaccine platform for veterinary species

Abstract

Vaccination has proven to be an effective means of controlling pathogens in animals. Since the introduction of veterinary vaccines in the 19th century, several generations of vaccines have been introduced. These vaccines have had a positive impact on global animal health and production. Despite, the success of veterinary vaccines, there are still some pathogens for which there are no effective vaccines available, such as African swine fever. Further, animal health is under the constant threat of emerging and re-emerging pathogens, some of which are zoonotic and can pose a threat to human health. The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic has highlighted the need for new vaccine platforms that are safe and efficacious, but also importantly, are adaptable and can be modified rapidly to match the circulating pathogens. mRNA vaccines have been shown to be an effective vaccine platform against various viral and bacterial pathogens. This review will cover some of the recent advances in the field of mRNA vaccines for veterinary species. Moreover, various mRNA vaccines and their delivery methods, as well as their reported efficacy, will be discussed. Current limitations and future prospects of this vaccine platform in veterinary medicine will also be discussed.