Dr. Raj Appavu made substantial contributions to science in the field of vaccine development.
Specifically, I have focused on the development of novel nanotechnology-based vaccine
adjuvants using self-assembling peptides/proteins for cocaine addiction and other infectious
diseases. One of my research projects addresses some of our nation’s most pressing issues in
developing single-shot vaccine for multiple disease targets and prevention. I have a strong
background in biochemistry, immunology, and structural biology that has allowed me to perform exceptionally unique research, with applications in rational synthetic vaccine adjuvant deign, immunization, ELISA experiments, cytotoxicity assay, potential drug molecule conjugation, and biophysical characterization, as well as the models they are predicated upon. I am particularly well known for my work in biomaterials immunology, including vaccine adjuvant development and assessment and characterization of peptide/protein nanofibers for the rational synthesis of physiologically soluble biomolecules.

My most important contribution to science is the construction of gold nanoparticles from self-
assembly of plant and animal viral capsid proteins. However, the synthesis of modified viral coat proteins requires gene recombination and protein expression, which are complicated and
susceptible to contamination. Alternatively, the reconstruction of virus-like nanoparticles from
synthetic peptides would enhance their potential for in vivo applications. Virus-inspired C3- and
C5-symmetric self-assembling peptide nanoparticles have been investigated for encapsulation
of small guest molecules, including drugs and DNA. I have previously used self-assembling peptides as nanofiber vaccines to address cocaine addiction and malaria infection. In order to achieve the primary objective of developing effective vaccines for SARS-CoV-2, we designed nanofiber vaccines consisting of analog-peptide conjugates. We will test these for efficacy using a controlled animal experiment.

I have extensive experience with peptide nanofiber formulation, design, synthesis, purification,
biophysical characterization, and B and T cell immune analysis using Flow cytometry. I also
have hands-on experience using animals in ABSL2 with certification from Galveston National
Laboratory in Texas (National Biocontainment Laboratory). Currently, I conduct research and
teach medical and healthcare students about personalized Covid-19 vaccine development, both the geriatric and pediatric versions.