A universal epitope-based influenza vaccine and its efficacy against H5N1

Previous studies have shown that a recombinant vaccine expressing four highly conserved influenza virus epitopes has a potential for a broad spectrum, cross-reactive vaccine; it induced protection against H1, H2 and H3 influenza strains. Here, we report on the evaluation of an epitope-based vaccine in which six conserved epitopes, common to many influenza virus strains are expressed within a recombinant flagellin that serves as both a carrier and adjuvant. In an HLA-A2.1 transgenic mice model, this vaccine induced both humoral and cellular responses and conferred some protection against lethal challenge with the highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza strain. Hence, it is expected to protect against future strains as well. The data presented, demonstrate the feasibility of using an array of peptides for vaccination, which might pave the way to an advantageous universal influenza virus vaccine that does not require frequent updates and/or annual immunizations.