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Published on: December 27, 2013
Polyelectrolyte LbL microcapsules versus PLGA microparticles for immunization with a protein antigen
Marie-Luce De Temmerman1, Joanna Rejman, Roosmarijn E Vandenbroucke
1Laboratory of General Biochemistry and Physical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Harelbekestraat 72, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
Summary
Two polymeric microparticle systems, Layer-by-Layer microcapsules and PLGA microparticles, effectively deliver ovalbumin (OVA) antigen. Both formulations induce strong, long-term Th2-biased immune responses in mice, showing promise for subunit vaccine development.
Area of Science:
- Vaccine Development
- Immunology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Subunit vaccines require adjuvants to enhance immunogenicity, moving beyond traditional organism-based vaccines.
- Polymeric microparticles offer advanced antigen delivery systems for improved vaccine efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare polyelectrolyte microcapsules (Layer-by-Layer) and PLGA microparticles as delivery systems for the model antigen ovalbumin (OVA).
- To evaluate the immunogenicity and type of immune response elicited by these microparticle formulations in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of polyelectrolyte microcapsules using Layer-by-Layer (LbL) technology and PLGA microparticles via spray-drying.
- Subcutaneous immunization of mice with OVA-loaded LbL microcapsules or PLGA microparticles (single or prime-boost).
- Assessment of humoral (IgG1, IgG2c) and cellular (cytokine production by CD4+ T-cells) immune responses at 6 months post-immunization.
Main Results:
- Both LbL microcapsules and PLGA microparticles induced high, sustained IgG1 antibody responses.
- Low IgG2c titers were observed, indicating a predominant Th2 immune bias.
- Significant increases in IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and IFN-γ production by splenic CD4+ T-cells were noted compared to controls.
- A mixed Th1/Th2 immune response, with a Th2 predominance, was characterized for both particulate formulations.
Conclusions:
- Both LbL microcapsules and PLGA microparticles are effective antigen delivery systems for ovalbumin.
- These formulations elicit comparable, strong immune responses in vivo, characterized by a Th2-dominant mixed Th1/Th2 immunity.
- Polymeric microparticles show significant potential as delivery platforms for subunit vaccines.
