A simple novel procedure for preparation of herpes simplex virus subunit vaccine

A simple procedure for preparation of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) subunit vaccine is described. The method is based on treatment of virus-infected cells with a nonionic detergent, removal of cell nuclei by low speed centrifugation, separation of viral nucleocapsids by high speed centrifugation through a sucrose cushion and, finally, precipitation of viral and cellular glycoproteins and proteins with ammonium sulphate (AS). Unlike to acetone precipitation, affinity chromatography on lectins or hydroxylapatite chromatography, AS precipitation repeatedly yielded the best and most reliable results as judged by relative protein content, antigenicity and immunogenicity of the final vaccine product.