Exploring the research behind deliverable D2.1 and CBM’s role in understanding ASFV immune modulation mechanisms
Understanding how the African swine fever virus (ASFV) interacts with its host is a critical step toward addressing one of the most complex challenges in veterinary science: the development of safe and effective vaccines against African swine fever (ASF).
Within the VAX4ASF project, Severo Ochoa Molecular Biology Centre (CBM-CSIC-UAM) is a key research partner, leading key activities on ASFV–host interaction and contributing to the understanding of immune modulation mechanisms. As part of this work, the public deliverable D2.1 focuses on identifying ASFV genes potentially involved in modulating the host’s immune response, particularly those involved in type I interferon (IFN) production and signalling, a key antiviral defense mechanism.
A complex virus with sophisticated strategies
ASFV is far from a simple pathogen. Its biological complexity is one of the main reasons why vaccine development remains so challenging.
As researchers from CBM explain: “The African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a large, complex, double-stranded DNA virus that encodes more than 150 genes. It is estimated that at least one-third of these genes are involved in modulating the host’s immune response. This makes it difficult to identify clear correlates of protection and to design vaccines that are both safe and broadly effective.”
The findings presented in this work contribute to this field by identifying specific viral genes that can modulate key antiviral pathways within the host immune response, particularly the IFN pathway, which plays a central role in detecting and controlling viral infections.
Understanding virus–host interaction: a foundation for research
The work carried out within this deliverable is part of a broader effort to better understand virus–host interactions, a cornerstone of VAX4ASF’s scientific approach.
As highlighted by the CBM team, “Our work helps to identify the most relevant viral components and immune mechanisms to target. By understanding these processes, we can identify critical viral factors and host pathways that are directly relevant for protective immunity.”
This, in turn, provides a solid scientific basis to guide the overall research direction of VAX4ASF, from selecting the most relevant antigenic targets to supporting the development of safer and more effective vaccine approaches.
Moreover, this work contributes to a more detailed understanding of ASFV biology by focusing on the mechanisms most likely to confer protection, enabling a more rational and coordinated scientific approach.
The role of the immune system: more than one line of defence
One of the important aspects highlighted by this research is the complexity of the immune response to ASFV infection. “Humoral immunity is mediated by antibodies that can neutralise the virus, while cellular immunity involves immune cells that eliminate infected cells”, as researchers at CBM explain.
In the case of ASFV, both components appear to play a role. Antibodies can help limit infection, while cellular immunity contributes to controlling infected cells.
In addition, the innate immune response, particularly type I interferon activation, represents an essential first line of defence. However, ASFV has evolved mechanisms to interfere with this response, as noted by CBM researchers: “The virus suppresses the innate immune response, preventing an effective protective response from developing.”
Understanding these interactions is key to explaining how the virus persists and spreads, and why controlling it remains so challenging.
The value of scientific collaboration
Addressing a complex infectious disease such as ASF requires coordinated efforts across disciplines and institutions. From the CBM perspective, the value of an interdisciplinary consortium like VAX4ASF lies in the combination of complementary expertise and perspectives, which enables more efficient knowledge sharing and progress. “No single group can tackle all aspects of a complex challenge like ASFV on its own.”
The VAX4ASF consortium brings together expertise in virology, immunology, veterinary science, and vaccine development, creating a collaborative environment where knowledge can be shared and research efforts aligned. “The real added value comes from this integration: combining competencies, accelerating translation, and, finally, increasing our chances of developing effective vaccines against ASFV”, according to CBM.
Advancing knowledge for animal health
While deliverable D2.1 focuses on fundamental research, its contribution is clear: improving our understanding of ASFV biology and immune interactions is essential for advancing scientific knowledge in the field of infectious disease control and veterinary innovation.
Through this work, VAX4ASF continues to support translational research, scientific collaboration, and knowledge sharing, contributing to the broader goal of strengthening animal health, disease prevention, and sustainable livestock production in line with a One Health approach.