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Soluble recombinant human metapneumovirus G protein is immunogenic but not protective

Alex B Ryder1, Sharon J Tollefson, Amy B Podsiad

  • 1Vanderbilt University Medical Center, School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232-2581, USA.

Vaccine
|April 27, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Immunization with the G protein of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) generated antibodies but not protection. This suggests HMPV G is not a protective antigen, unlike similar proteins in other paramyxoviruses.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Vaccine Development

Background:

  • Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a significant respiratory pathogen.
  • Surface glycoproteins F and G are key targets for immune responses.
  • The protective role of HMPV G protein in immunity is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the protective efficacy of immunization with the HMPV G protein.
  • To assess the immunogenicity of a recombinant G ectodomain (GDeltaTM) in a relevant animal model.

Main Methods:

  • A recombinant G ectodomain (GDeltaTM) was generated and purified.
  • Cotton rats were immunized with GDeltaTM (alone or adjuvanted) or infected with HMPV.
  • Animals were subsequently challenged with live HMPV to assess protection.

Main Results:

  • Vaccination with GDeltaTM induced high antibody titers against both recombinant and native G protein.
  • Despite antibody induction, vaccinated animals did not develop neutralizing antibodies.
  • Vaccinated animals were not protected against live HMPV challenge.

Conclusions:

  • HMPV G protein, unlike analogous glycoproteins in other human paramyxoviruses, does not appear to be a protective antigen.
  • This finding highlights an unusual characteristic of HMPV.
  • Further research into alternative HMPV vaccine targets, such as the F protein, is warranted.

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