Developing a nontypeable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) vaccine

There is a current high demand for nontypable Haemophilus influenzae (NTHi) vaccines. Various options for the composition of such vaccines are possible. Decisions about the vaccine composition have to take into account the antigenic variability of NTHi, so even complex immunogens such as whole bacteria would preferentially have a tailor-made antigenic composition. We will present a summary of NTHi vaccine development, describing research efforts from SmithKline Beecham and other laboratories. Currently, major (P1, P2, P4, P5) and minor (P6, D15, TbpA/B, ellipsis) outer membrane proteins, LPS, adhesins (HMW, Hia, pili, P5) are being studied. Preclinical results with LPD, P5 (LB1) and OMP26 from our laboratories will be described including the use of animal models of otitis and lung infection.