A linear DNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 receptor binding domain elicits potent immune response and neutralizing antibodies in domestic cats

Abstract

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the etiologic agent of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been shown to infect a wide range of animal species, especially mammals, and besides human-to-human transmission, human-to-animal transmission has also been observed in some wild animals and pets, especially in cats. It has been 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 clinical trial conducted in domestic cats to assess safety and immunogenicity of a linear DNA (linDNA) vaccine encoding the receptor-binding domain (RBD) from SARS-CoV-2 (Lin-COVID-eVax). Lin-COVID-eVax proved to be safe, with no significant adverse events, and was able to elicit both RBD-specific antibodies and T cells. Also, the linDNA vaccine induced neutralizing antibody titers against ancestral SARS-CoV-2 virus and its variants. 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.