Forsker med blå hansker ser gjennom et mikroskop i et lyst laboratorium.

Aqualab

VESO Aqualab is a contract research facility that specialize in conducting trials with infectious diseases in various fish species. We offer standardized challenge models for Atlantic salmon, rainbow trout, seabass and lumpfish, while also actively contributing to the development of models for other species. ‍

Our trials encompass a wide range of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, and parasites, covering both well-known and emerging diseases. We offer pre-clinical laboratory trials to evaluate safety and efficacy of new products (GLP). We also offer long-term studies, focusing on the duration of protection offered by vaccines, as well as conducting GCP compliant field trials in commercial farming settings. Our team of regulatory experts may help with the development and registration process to bring new products faster to the market.

Research Facility

The facility is equipped with state-of-the-art non-recirculation trial unit labs featuring advanced registration and surveillance systems. Our research facilities consist of wet labs with separate isolates and holding tanks from 5 to 13 000 liters. The tank design can be tailored to accommodate all research needs, incorporating customizable elements such as individual light and feeding regimes, temperature control and salinity adjustments. We offer a range of water qualities from 0 to ~33 ‰ salinity, sourced from depths of up to 60 meters outside the facilities. Incoming water is filtered and UV-treated prior to admittance to the test area. Effluent water is filtered and disinfected with sodium hypochlorite and ozone before release into the environment.

Forsker i laboratoriefrakk undersøker en stor tank i et oppdrettsanlegg.

En tett stim av fisk i et oppdrettsanlegg under vann.

Fish

At VESO Aqualab, we produce our own Atlantic salmon specifically for trials. This approach allows us to closely monitor the production process and ensures a consistent supply of high-quality test fish. 15-30-grams parr are available all year, and smolts are available after a 12-week period of light manipulation. We screen the fish batches for known pathogens at various stages of the production cycle. By overseeing the entire production process, from ova to smolts ready for transfer to sea, we can ensure quality at every step. The hatchery is certified according to GlobalGAP standards. We routinely conduct trials on various other species for which we source fish from external suppliers. Our comprehensive selection of challenge models includes well-established protocols for rainbow trout, sea bass, lumpfish and Atlantic cod, allowing us to cater to a diverse array of research needs and objectives.

Quality Standards

GMP

GLP

GCP

GAP

Good Manufacturing Practice/GMP

We have obtained a licence from the Norwegian Medical Products Agency (NOMA) allowing us to perform potency- and safety trials for vaccines and pharmaceuticals in compliance with Good Manufacturing (GMP) requirements.

Good Laboratory Practice/GLP

We have been certified by Norwegian Accreditation for compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards. GLP ensures the quality and reliability of test data in non-clinical safety studies, maintaining the integrity of the research.

Good Clinical Practice/GCP

VESO Aqualab offers investigator and monitoring services in both laboratory and field trials, conducted in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP). This approach ensures the quality of clinical trials based on the principles of VICH.

Global
GAP

Our hatchery has obtained certification in compliance with GlobalGAP standards. This certification system encompasses crucial sustainability factors, including animal health and welfare, worker safety and welfare, environmental considerations, and traceability throughout all stages of production.

Statistical Analysis

We provide statistical analysis through our partnership with Salmalytics. Salmalytics has long experience in analysis of epidemiological data, as well as design and data analysis of clinical trials and field studies. The appropriate competence and team will be available for addressing the specific tasks in each project.

Innendørs oppdrettslaboratorium med flere hvite tanker og rør.

Oppdrettsanlegg i sjøen med gule bøyer i forgrunnen og fjell i bakgrunnen.

Adaptive Trial Design

We are sincerely dedicated to conducting trials that adhere to the highest ethical standards, guided by the principles of the 3Rs; Replacement, Reduction and Refinement. We continually strive to enhance our trial models by employing adaptive design, ensuring fewer fish are involved, minimizing discomfort, and reducing the duration of trials. All trials must be approved by the Norwegian Animal Welfare Authorities before trial start.