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Transcutaneous immunisation with herpes simplex virus stimulates immunity in mice
A A El-Ghorr1, R M Williams, C Heap
1Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Edinburgh Medical School, Teviot Place, EH8 9AG, Edinburgh, UK.
FEMS Immunology and Medical Microbiology
|December 19, 2000
Summary
Transcutaneous immunization with herpes simplex virus (HSV) antigens stimulated both humoral and cell-mediated immunity in mice. The cell-mediated response correlated with better protection against HSV challenge, suggesting this route
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a widespread pathogen, necessitating effective vaccine development.
- Transcutaneous immunization is an emerging vaccine delivery method utilizing skin application with adjuvants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of transcutaneous immunization with HSV-1 vaccine formulations in a mouse model.
- To compare the immune responses elicited by whole inactivated HSV-1 versus HSV-1 antigens delivered transcutaneously with cholera toxin (CT).
Main Methods:
- C3H mice were immunized transcutaneously with CT co-administered with whole inactivated HSV-1 (CT+HSVi), HSV-1 antigens (CT+HSVag), or bovine serum albumin (CT+BSA).
- Immune responses, including serum and mucosal antibodies, cell-mediated immunity (delayed type hypersensitivity, lymphocyte proliferation), and protection against HSV challenge, were assessed.
Main Results:
- Both HSV vaccine preparations induced serum and mucosal antibodies to HSV and CT, along with Langerhans cell migration.
- CT+HSVi primarily stimulated humoral immunity, while CT+HSVag preferentially induced cell-mediated immunity.
- The CT+HSVag vaccine conferred superior protection against HSV challenge, indicating the importance of cell-mediated immunity.
Conclusions:
- Transcutaneous immunization is a viable route for HSV vaccine delivery, eliciting both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.
- Cell-mediated immunity appears crucial for effective protection against HSV, suggesting a potential advantage for antigen-based vaccines delivered transcutaneously.
- The transcutaneous route warrants further investigation for novel vaccine delivery strategies.