Current OET Projects

• New single-step expression process
  OET's prime focus for research is currently the further development of the next generation of flashBAC, a new and patented method for the rapid and automated generation of baculovirus expression vectors. This one-step procedure enables fast and simultaneous production of multiple recombinant viruses, lending itself to development for high-throughput and automated systems.

 
• High-Throughput Protocols
  Work is currently being done on providng optimisation protocols for the use of flashBAC in 96 well format.

 
• Cathepsin Deletion
  Another project is deleting cathepsin from the viral genome in order to further enhance the secretion of proteins.

 
• Baculovirus molecular biology and host-cell interactions
  The regulation of baculovirus late gene expression is being studied using molecular genetic, protein engineering and immunocytochemical techniques. The role of baculovirus genes in the liquefaction of larvae is also being examined together with investigations into the mechanisms that baculoviruses use to persist in natural insect populations.

 
• Development of novel baculovirus expression vectors
  A number of approaches are being taken to improve the efficacy of baculoviruses as both vectors for the production of membrane targeted and secreted proteins, and as vectors for the control of insect pests. We are also investigating ways of increasing the yield of recombinant protein production in stable insect cell lines.

 
• Entomopoxviruses
  We were the first group to demonstrate that it is possible to genetically manipulate the entomopoxvirus genome. Current studies are focusing on increasing our understanding of the replication of these viruses at the molecular level and using this information to improve the efficacy of these viruses as expression vectors

 

Brookes Insect Virus Research Group

The Insect Virus Research Group at Oxford Brookes University is co-located with OET and undertakes complimentary research. The group is housed in a purpose built suite of modern laboratories which are well equipped for many aspects of molecular biology and virology. The group also has access to all School facilities including a state-of-the-art microscopy suite for confocal and electron microscopy.

Research concerns both basic studies on the replication and pathogenesis of insect viruses in cell culture and in vivo, and in the exploitation of these viruses as expression vectors and biological control agents. Although most research focuses on baculoviruses, we also have projects on entomopoxviruses and the use of stable insect cell cultures for recombinant protein synthesis.