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Hepatitis B core-based virus-like particles to present heterologous epitopes
Kenny Roose1, Sarah De Baets, Bert Schepens
1Department for Molecular Biomedical Research, VIB, 9052 Ghent, Belgium.
Expert Review of Vaccines
|February 19, 2013
Summary
Hepatitis B core protein (HBc) forms virus-like particles, acting as a potent carrier for antigens from various pathogens. This platform shows promise for developing new vaccines, with some candidates in clinical trials.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Recombinant expression of hepatitis B core protein (HBc) has revealed its unique virion-like structure.
- HBc virus-like particles (VLPs) exhibit strong immunogenic properties and can present linked antigens effectively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the utility of HBc as a carrier protein and antigen-presenting platform.
- To highlight the potential of HBc-based VLPs for vaccine development.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on HBc protein expression and VLP formation.
- Analysis of experimental results demonstrating HBc's antigen-presenting capabilities.
- Case studies of HBc fusions targeting specific pathogens.
Main Results:
- HBc VLPs have been successfully used to display antigens from over a dozen pathogens.
- Two HBc fusion constructs targeting influenza A and malaria have advanced to clinical testing.
- HBc VLP formation is compatible with diverse recombinant gene expression systems.
Conclusions:
- HBc is a versatile and effective platform for antigen presentation.
- The HBc VLP platform holds significant promise for developing vaccines against poorly immunogenic antigens.
- Continued use of HBc-based VLPs is expected for future vaccine strategies.
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