Related Experiment Videos
Pathogenesis of and immunity to melioidosis
1Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Calgary Health Sciences Center, Alta, Canada.
Abstract:
While Burkholderia pseudomallei, the causative agent of melioidosis, is becoming increasingly recognized as a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in regions to which it is endemic, no licensed vaccine preparation currently exists for immunization against the disease. Therefore, one of the primary goals of our research has been to identify and characterize antigens expressed by B. pseudomallei isolates for the intended purpose of developing a vaccine construct that can be used to actively immunize specific high risk populations against the disease. By utilizing a combination of biochemical, immunological and molecular approaches, our studies now indicate that some of the most promising candidates for this task include flagellin proteins and the endotoxin derived O-polysaccharide (PS) antigens expressed by the organism. In this review, we have attempted to summarize the current status of B. pseudomallei research while endeavoring to provide a rationale for our approach towards the development of a melioidosis vaccine.
Insights
No vaccine currently exists for melioidosis, a disease caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei. Research identifies flagellin and O-polysaccharide antigens as promising candidates for a new vaccine.
Area of Science:
- Bacteriology
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Melioidosis, caused by Burkholderia pseudomallei, is a significant health concern in endemic areas.
- There is currently no licensed vaccine available for melioidosis prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize B. pseudomallei antigens for vaccine development.
- To develop a vaccine construct for active immunization against melioidosis.
Main Methods:
- Biochemical approaches
- Immunological approaches
- Molecular approaches
Main Results:
- Flagellin proteins are identified as promising vaccine candidates.
- O-polysaccharide (PS) antigens are identified as promising vaccine candidates.
Conclusions:
- Flagellin and O-polysaccharide antigens show potential for a melioidosis vaccine.
- Further research is warranted to develop an effective vaccine against B. pseudomallei.