A linear DNA vaccine candidate encoding the SARS-CoV-2 Receptor Binding Domain elicits protective immunity in domestic cats

ABSTRACT

Since its first detection in China in late 2019, SARS-CoV-2, the etiologic agent of COVID-19 pandemic, has infected a wide range of animal species, especially mammals, all over the world. Indeed, as reported by the American Veterinary Medical Association, besides human-to-human transmission, human-to-animal transmission has been observed in some wild animals and pets, especially in cats. With animal models as an invaluable tool in the study of infectious diseases combined with the fact that the intermediate animal source of SARS-CoV-2 is still unknown, researchers have demonstrated that cats are permissive to COVID-19 and are susceptible to airborne infections. Given the high transmissibility potential of SARS-CoV-2 to different host species and the close contact between humans and animals, it is crucial to find mechanisms to prevent the transmission chain and reduce the risk of spillover to susceptible species. Here, we show results from a randomized Phase I/II clinical study conducted in domestic cats to assess safety and immunogenicity of a linear DNA ("linDNA") vaccine encoding the RBD domain of SARS-CoV-2. No significant adverse events occurred and both RBD-specific binding/neutralizing antibodies and T cells were detected. These findings demonstrate the safety and immunogenicity of a genetic vaccine against COVID-19 administered to cats and strongly support the development of vaccines for preventing viral spread in susceptible species, especially those in close contact with humans.