Orthopoxvirus antigens (expressed by Sementis Copenhagen Vector) (SCV-expressed Orthopoxvirus antigens)

Orthopoxvirus antigens expressed by the Sementis Copenhagen Vector (SCV) are a suite of viral proteins, such as A27, L1, B5, and A33, designed to elicit a broad and protective immune response against orthopoxviruses like smallpox and mpox. The SCV platform utilizes a multiplication-defective Copenhagen strain of the vaccinia virus that has been genetically engineered to be unable to replicate in human cells, which significantly improves its safety profile compared to traditional live-attenuated vaccines (Sementis, 2024). By encoding these specific antigens, the vector prompts the host's immune system to produce neutralizing antibodies and activate T-cell pathways, targeting both the mature virus (MV) and extracellular enveloped virus (EEV) forms (Prow et al., 2018). This dual mechanism of action is intended to prevent viral entry and subsequent spread within the host. The SCV-SXV vaccine candidate is the primary therapeutic application of this technology, aimed at providing cross-protection across the Orthopoxvirus genus for biodefense and public health preparedness (Howley et al., 2020). These antigens are considered the primary targets for the induction of active immunity in vaccinated individuals.

Other names

SCV-SXV antigensSementis Copenhagen Vector-encoded antigensOrthopoxvirus vaccine antigensMultiplication-defective vaccinia virus antigens

Induction of active immunity through the expression of viral antigens that stimulate B-cell and T-cell responses.