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Detection of Neutralization-sensitive Epitopes in Antigens Displayed on Virus-Like Particle (VLP)-Based Vaccines Using a Capture Assay
Published on: February 10, 2022
Versatile virus-like particle carrier for epitope based vaccines
Alain C Tissot1, Regina Renhofa, Nicole Schmitz
1Cytos Biotechnology AG, Zurich-Schlieren, Switzerland.
Plos One
|March 31, 2010
Summary
Virus-like particles (VLPs) derived from AP205 bacteriophage efficiently display peptide antigens, eliciting strong immune responses. This novel vaccine system demonstrates success in inhibiting GnRH function and protecting against influenza infection.
Area of Science:
- Vaccinology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Recombinant proteins and peptides often require carrier conjugation for immunogenicity.
- Virus-like particles (VLPs) are highly effective at enhancing antigen immunogenicity.
- AP205 bacteriophage-derived VLPs offer a novel platform for epitope-based vaccines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop virus-like particles (VLPs) from the RNA bacteriophage AP205 for epitope-based vaccines.
- To assess the immunogenicity and efficacy of AP205 VLPs displaying various peptide antigens.
Main Methods:
- Peptides from angiotensin II, S.typhi outer membrane protein (D2), CXCR4, HIV1 Nef, GnRH, and Influenza A M2-protein were fused to the AP205 coat protein.
- Fusion proteins were assembled into AP205 VLPs.
- Immunogenicity and protective efficacy were evaluated in mouse models.
Main Results:
- AP205-peptide fusions successfully assembled into VLPs with displayed peptides.
- Displayed peptides on AP205 VLPs were highly immunogenic in mice.
- GnRH-fused VLPs inhibited GnRH function in vivo; M2-protein-fused VLPs conferred 100% protection against lethal influenza infection.
Conclusions:
- AP205 VLPs represent a novel and efficient vaccine system for displaying complex epitopes up to 55 amino acids.
- AP205 VLPs significantly enhance epitope immunogenicity, demonstrated by functional inhibition and protective immunity.
- This VLP platform shows promise for developing vaccines against various pathogens and diseases.
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