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Codon Deoptimisation Technology
Context:
Hyderabad-based vaccine manufacturer Indian Immunologicals Ltd (IIL) has achieved a significant milestone in the fight against COVID-19.
More on News:
- In collaboration with Griffith University, Australia, they have developed a needle-free intranasal booster vaccine against SARS-CoV-2.
- The live-attenuated booster utilises a cutting-edge technology known as “codon deoptimisation.”
About CoDe (Codon De-Optimisation):
Key Highlights:
- The new vaccine arrives amidst ongoing concerns about COVID-19 variants. Union Health Minister recently informed about the emergence of two new strains, KP.1 and KP.2, derived from the JN1 Omicron variant.
- These strains are highly transmissible but have not yet led to an increase in hospitalisations or severe cases.
- As of December 2023, India has administered a total of 220.67 crore COVID-19 vaccine doses, but only 22.88 crore precautionary or booster doses have been given to eligible adults.
- A new intra-nasal booster vaccine could play a crucial role in enhancing booster dose uptake and providing an additional layer of protection against evolving COVID-19 variants.