Tshephang Iris Kabelo
- Country of Origin: Botswana
- Home University: Botswana International University of Science and Technology
- Host University & Country: University of Reading - United Kingdom
- PhD Title: Optimization of Virus-like-Particle Based Vaccines for African Strains of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus
- Year of Completion: 2026
PhD Overview
Vaccination is the most effective way of controlling Foot and Mouth disease, but the costs associated with the production and distribution of the current chemically inactivated virus vaccine makes it unsuitable for low economy countries. Virus-like particles (VLPs) vaccines made solely from the viral structural proteins are a cost-effective vaccine alternative. Of the seven serotypes of FMDV, virus-like particles (VLPs) for A, O, and Asia have been successfully produced, purified and shown to induce protective immune responses but the African remaining serotypes have been more challenging due to their inherent instability. A measure of VLP stability is their ability to be secreted from the expressing cell, only correctly assembled VLPs secrete, partial or poorly assembled VLPs do not. Improving VLP assembly and trafficking could therefore provide a corrective strategy for non-secreting VLPs, including the African serotypes enabling use as vaccine candidates. The aim of this PhD research is to enhance the entire process of VLP production for African strains of FMDV.
Sustainability Goals
- No Poverty
- Zero Hunger
About Me
My goal is to improve vaccine production in Africa, ensuring cost-effective and accessible solutions for both animal and human health. I have worked collaboratively with leading African vaccine-producing institutes, such as the Botswana Vaccine Institute, to address critical challenges like foot and mouth disease (FMD) in Botswana and beyond. By advancing vaccine technologies and enhancing affordability, Africa can emerge as a key player in the global vaccine space—transforming public health outcomes, driving innovation, and strengthening economic resilience. My focus is on creating meaningful impact: influencing policies, implementing effective strategies, and contributing to groundbreaking research that delivers tangible results for communities in Africa and beyond.