BRIN Develops FMD Vaccine From Silk Plates That Can Be Eated Directly By Livestock

Vaccine Development Research Center Research and Drugs BRIN Health Research Organization Doddy Irawan Setyo Utomo conducted research. (ANTARA/Personal Documentation)

BRIN Develops FMD Vaccine From Silk Plates That Can Be Eated Directly By Livestock

JAKARTA - The National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) developed a vaccine for oral and nail disease (PMK) in livestock using silkworms that can be eaten directly by livestock (edible).

"Unlike other vaccines given through injections, we use a new breakthrough so that livestock can be eaten," said BRIN Vaccine and Health Research Center Vaccine Development Research Center researcher Doddy Irawan Setyo Utomo as reported by ANTARA, Monday, October 19.

He said the method used in developing the vaccine was based on protein sub-units, by expressing the structural protein of the PMK virus, namely VP-0, VP-1, and VP-3 parts of the virus in silk caterpillars.

In addition, his party is currently preparing for an anti-geneity test on the screening that will be carried out next month.

"Now in preparation for antigenic testing in snaking, it is planned that next year we will try it in animals that are the subject of the PMK virus, such as mediation, goats, or cows," he said.

He assessed that the vaccine, which is being developed by BRIN, is more efficient because silkworms, which act as the basis for making vaccines, are relatively cheap and one silkworm pulpa, can produce 2-4 mg of protein.

Because it was made Edible, he said, how to apply this vaccine by mixing together feed given to livestock, but has been adjusted to the required dose.

He hopes that after trials on virus subjects, this PMK vaccine can be mass produced and distributed to the public soon.