Characterisation of a protective linear B cell epitope against feline parvoviruses

Monoclonal antibody 3C9 was the starting material in the definition of the epitope that led to the synthesis of the first efficient peptide vaccine against a viral disease (canine parvovirus) in the natural host (dog). In this report, we have analysed the specificity of the antibody at the single amino acid level and the contribution of each residue to the binding, using multiple length analysis. Moreover, a replacement analysis allowed determining those critical residues for the binding. Finally, in an attempt to optimise the production cost of the vaccine, we have determined that the minimal dose required for induction of protective antibodies can be as low as 0.5 microg of peptide. Also, KLH can be replaced as a carrier for a much cheaper alternative such as ovalbumine. All these findings implicate a substantial reduction in the cost of the vaccinal dose.