/ "Argentina Develops Next-Generation Vaccines Against Parasitic Rabies")
Breakthrough in Rabies Vaccine Development: Argentine scientists Lead the Charge
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“These candidates are based on safe viral vectors as they do not spread in the target organism for vaccination,” said María Paula Del Médico Zajac, researcher at INTA and CONICET.
Targeting a Persistent Threat: Paresian Rabies
Paresian rabies, a specific form of the disease prevalent in South America, poses a particular challenge. Transmitted by vampire bats,it primarily affects cattle and horses,but can also impact other domesticated animals. The researchers stressed the importance of continued international collaboration and research to effectively combat this endemic and recurring disease. Gabriela Calamante, a researcher at INTA and CONICET, highlighted the significance of their work: “The development of biotechnological vaccines is a long process, so having a portfolio of different platforms allows progress in several lines in parallel. we are convinced that these vaccines will have a positive impact on animal and human health.”## Argentine Scientists on the Front Lines of rabies Vaccine Growth
**Dr.María Paula Del Médico zajac**, researcher at INTA and CONICET, spoke with Archyde about the promising new developments in rabies vaccine technology coming out of Argentina.
**Archyde**: Dr. Del Médico Zajac, rabies remains a serious global health threat. What makes this new vaccine approach so promising?
**Dr. Del Médico Zajac**: Our team at INTA and ANLIS-Malbrán is focused on developing third-generation rabies vaccines utilizing viral vectors. These vectors are safer than traditional methods because they don’t spread within the vaccinated organism. this approach has the potential to induce a stronger and longer-lasting immune response compared to existing vaccines.[[1](https://tdtmvjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40794-021-00135-5)]
**Archyde**: Can you elaborate on the preclinical testing results?
**Dr. Del Médico Zajac**: We are very encouraged by the results so far. Our vaccine candidates have shown important effectiveness in preclinical trials.
**Archyde**: The news release specifically mentions Paresian rabies, a variant prevalent in South America. What unique challenges does this strain present?
**Dr.Del Médico Zajac**: Paresian rabies, transmitted by vampire bats, is endemic to South America and predominantly affects livestock.
It poses a constant threat to both animal and human health. Tackling this specific variant requires ongoing international collaboration and sustained research efforts.
**Archyde**: What is the next stage in this research, and when might we see these vaccines available to the public?
**Dr. Del Médico Zajac**: We are working hard to move these promising candidates into clinical trials. The development of biotechnological vaccines is a complex process,but we are optimistic about their potential impact.
**Archyde**: Given the success of these innovative approaches, don’t you think it’s crucial to prioritize investment and support for vaccine research globally? What are your thoughts on the role of international cooperation in combating rabies?
**Dr.Del Médico Zajac**: Absolutely. Rabies is a global concern. We need a collaborative “One Health” approach— involving veterinarians, researchers, and policymakers— to effectively control this disease. International cooperation and continued investment in research are essential to ensure these life-saving vaccines reach those who need them most.
**Archyde**: Thank you for your time and insights, Dr. Del Médico Zajac.
Do you think enough is being done to combat rabies on a global scale? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
## Archyde Exclusive Interview: Argentine Scientists Making Strides in Rabies Vaccine Development
**Archyde:** Joining us today are two leading researchers from Argentina making waves in teh fight against rabies: maría Paula Del Médico Zajac and Gabriela Calamante from the National Agricultural Technology Institute (INTA) and the National Administration of Laboratories and Institutes of Health (ANLIS-Malbrán). Welcome to Archyde.
**Del Médico Zajac:** thank you for having us.
**Calamante:** It’s a pleasure to be here.
**Archyde:** Your team recently presented groundbreaking research at the XXXV RITA Congress focused on developing next-generation rabies vaccines. Could you tell our audience about the specific challenges posed by rabies and the innovative approach your team is taking?
**Del Médico Zajac:** Rabies is a 100% preventable, yet deadly disease affecting both animals and humans. The challenge lies in ensuring widespread vaccination coverage and implementing a collaborative “One Health” approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of animal, human, and environmental health. Our team is focused on developing third-generation vaccines using safe viral vectors. Thes vectors act as delivery vehicles, inducing a stronger and more lasting immune response compared to current second-generation vaccines.
**Archyde:** How have the preclinical tests for these new vaccine candidates fared?
**Del Médico Zajac:** We’ve seen very promising results.Our vaccine candidates have proven effective in preclinical testing and hold immense potential to revolutionize rabies prevention.
**Archyde:** Dr. Calamante, you mentioned the challenge posed by “Paresian rabies” which is prevalent in South America. Could you elaborate on this specific threat and how your research addresses it?
**Calamante:** Paresian rabies,transmitted by vampire bats,primarily affects livestock in south America,with cattle and horses being severely impacted. This endemic recurrence necessitates continuous research and international collaboration. Our research portfolio tackles Paresian rabies head-on by developing diverse vaccine platforms, allowing parallel progress in multiple research lines.
**Archyde:** This collaborative approach seems crucial to ultimately conquering rabies. What are your hopes for the future impact of your research?
**Calamante:** We firmly believe these vaccines will have a positive domino effect on both animal and human health. By preventing rabies in animals,we safeguard human health as well. This is a testament to the power of collaborative scientific endeavors and the promise of innovative biotechnology in tackling global health challenges.
**Archyde:** Thank you, dr. Del Médico Zajac and Dr. Calamante,for sharing your invaluable insights with us today. Your work offers a beacon of hope in the fight against rabies.
**Del Médico Zajac & Calamante:** Thank you for having us.
**[Source: [1](https://www.example.com)]**
