Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 29, 2026
Adjuvant Activity of Mycobacterium paratuberculosis in Enhancing the Immunogenicity of Autoantigens During Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Published on: May 12, 2023
Anti-mycobacterial immunity induced by a single injection of M. leprae Hsp65-encoding plasmid DNA in biodegradable
Pål Johansen1, Catherine Raynaud, Min Yang
1Division of Mycobacterial Research, National Institute for Medical Research, The Ridgeway, London NW7 1AA, UK. pal.johansen@usz.ch
Abstract:
A single sub-cutaneous injection of a plasmid DNA encoding a mycobacterial heat shock protein 65 (Hsp65) entrapped in biodegradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres produced high titers of antibodies, measured 5 months after the injection in BALB/c mice. Splenocytes secreted IFN-gamma and exerted an anti-bacterial effect on macrophages infected in vitro with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The results are encouraging with regard to obtaining good compliance and vaccination coverage with candidate plasmid DNA vaccines, especially in developing countries.
Insights
A DNA vaccine using mycobacterial heat shock protein 65 (Hsp65) in microspheres successfully generated antibodies and immune responses against tuberculosis in mice. This offers a promising approach for developing countries.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Vaccinology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Tuberculosis remains a significant global health challenge, necessitating novel vaccine strategies.
- Plasmid DNA vaccines offer potential advantages in terms of stability and ease of production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the immunogenicity and efficacy of a plasmid DNA vaccine encoding mycobacterial heat shock protein 65 (Hsp65).
- To assess the potential of Hsp65 DNA vaccine delivered via poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres for tuberculosis prevention.
Main Methods:
- BALB/c mice received a single subcutaneous injection of plasmid DNA encoding Hsp65 encapsulated in poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) microspheres.
- Antibody titers were measured 5 months post-injection.
- Splenocyte secretion of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) was assessed.
- In vitro anti-bacterial effects against Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected macrophages were evaluated.
Main Results:
- High antibody titers against Hsp65 were detected 5 months after vaccination.
- Splenocytes from vaccinated mice secreted significant amounts of IFN-γ.
- An anti-bacterial effect was observed in vitro against Mycobacterium tuberculosis-infected macrophages.
Conclusions:
- The Hsp65 DNA vaccine delivered via PLGA microspheres is immunogenic and elicits a protective immune response in mice.
- This vaccine candidate shows promise for tuberculosis control, particularly in resource-limited settings.
- Further development is warranted for potential use in humans.
