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IgG1, IgG2 and IgM responses to two Haemophilus influenzae type b conjugate vaccines in young infants

D M Ambrosino1, S K Sood, M C Lee

  • 1Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA 02115.

Insights

Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) conjugate vaccines elicit different immune responses. PRP-OMPC provides an early antibody response, while HbOC requires more doses for a robust response, indicating varying vaccine efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Vaccinology
  • Pediatrics

Background:

  • Two conjugate vaccines for Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) exist: PRP-meningococcal outer membrane protein complex (PRP-OMPC) and oligosaccharide linked to variant diphtheria toxin (HbOC).
  • These vaccines are licensed for infants starting at 2 months of age.
  • Previous studies noted differences in serologic responses, with PRP-OMPC showing an early response and HbOC a higher response after a third dose.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize the distinct immune responses elicited by PRP-OMPC and HbOC Hib conjugate vaccines.
  • To compare IgG1, IgG2, and IgM anti-Hib antibody concentrations after primary and booster doses of these vaccines.

Main Methods:

  • Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure IgG1, IgG2, and IgM anti-Hib antibody concentrations.
  • Infants received either PRP-OMPC or HbOC vaccine at 2, 4, and 6 months of age.
  • A booster dose of PRP-OMPC was administered at 18 months to a subset of subjects.

Main Results:

  • PRP-OMPC induced an IgM and IgG1 anti-Hib response after the initial dose at 2 months.
  • HbOC showed increased IgG1 and IgM after two doses, with an IgG2 response occurring after the third dose at 6 months.
  • Subjects previously primed with Hib vaccine had significantly higher IgG1 and IgG2 concentrations after an 18-month booster dose compared to those receiving only a primary dose.

Conclusions:

  • Both Hib conjugate vaccines induce predominantly IgG1 anti-Hib antibody responses.
  • The early immune response to PRP-OMPC at 2 months may be attributed to the adjuvant properties of the outer membrane protein complex (OMPC).
  • Vaccine priming significantly enhances secondary antibody responses to Hib conjugate vaccines.

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