Development of a novel mechanism-based glycolipid adjuvant for vaccination

The inability to elicit strong and durable cellular responses is a major obstacle in the development of successful vaccines, in particular those against malaria. In this regard, the generation of novel adjuvants that will potently boost cell-mediated immunity induced by candidate vaccines is helpful. We and others have found a glycolipid, called α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), which could be presented on CD1d expressed by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) and stimulate natural killer T (NKT) cells. This triggers the activation/maturation of APCs, particularly dendritic cells (DCs). By activating NKT cells and subsequently DCs, α-GalCer has been shown to enhance adaptive immune responses, particularly of CD8 ⁺ T cells, induced by the vaccines. More recently, we identified an analogue of α-GalCer, which can display a potent adjuvant activity in conjunction with malaria vaccines in mice and non-human primates. It is anticipated that CD1d-binding, NKT cell-stimulating glycolipids will be tested as adjuvants in humans in the near future.