Difficulties in standardizing the neuraminidase content of influenza vaccines

To achieve better standardization of influenza vaccines, an ELISA immunocapture assay was developed for N2 neuraminidase quantification. This sensitive and highly specific assay was successfully applied to vaccine preparations produced in embryonated hens' eggs from 1992 to 1997 and to antigenically related viral suspensions produced in MDCK cells. A study of the neuraminidase activity of prototype A/H3N2 strains stored at 4 degrees C showed the gradual development of enzymatic instability from 1994 onwards, accompanied by antigenic modifications of the antigen. As the phenomenon was also more pronounced with the recombinant, the question arose of the standard of immunity provided when such viruses are used for vaccination. The antibodies inhibiting neuraminidase activity in vaccinated subjects were monitored in parallel using both complete virus and purified N2 NA. The study revealed the existence of an interference phenomenon which resulted in the titre of the N1 antibodies being overestimated. The interference was due to anti-HA antibodies impeding access to the substrate at the enzymatic site by steric hindrance.