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Th1 genetic adjuvants modulate immune responses in neonates
T M Pertmer1, A E Oran, C A Madorin
1Yerkes Regional Primate Research Center of Emory University, 954 Gatewood Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, USA.
Vaccine
|February 13, 2001
Summary
DNA vaccines encoding Th1 cytokines, interleukin-12 (IL-12) or interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), biased antibody responses in neonatal mice but not adults. This suggests age-dependent immune modulation by genetic adjuvants.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The development of effective vaccines relies on understanding immune responses.
- Neonatal immune systems differ significantly from adult systems, impacting vaccine efficacy.
- DNA vaccines offer a flexible platform for delivering antigens and immune-modulating molecules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of Th1 cytokine-expressing DNA adjuvants on antibody isotype and lymphokine production following immunization.
- To compare the effects of these genetic adjuvants in neonatal versus adult mice.
Main Methods:
- Mice (neonatal and adult) were immunized with DNA encoding influenza hemagglutinin (HA-DNA).
- Co-immunization with DNA expressing IL-12 or IFN-γ was performed.
- Antibody isotype patterns and lymphokine production by splenocytes upon recall were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Neonatal mice co-immunized with HA-DNA and Th1 cytokine DNA showed an IgG2a-biased antibody response.
- Th1 genetic adjuvants did not alter IgG subtype patterns in adult mice.
- In neonates, Th1 adjuvants shifted lymphokine production to exclusively IFN-γ.
- Adults showed a shift towards IFN-γ production, but without altering antibody isotype patterns.
Conclusions:
- Th1 cytokine-expressing DNA adjuvants significantly influence immune responses in neonatal mice, promoting Th1-biased antibody and lymphokine profiles.
- The effects of these genetic adjuvants are age-dependent, with diminished impact on antibody isotype in adult mice.
- Coinoculation with Th1 genetic adjuvants demonstrates greater immunomodulatory potential in the neonate compared to the adult.