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Comparison of immunological adjuvants
Nicole H Trier1, Esin Güven1, Kristin Skogstrand2
1Department of Autoimmunology, Statens Serum Institut, Copenhagen S, Denmark.
Summary
Immunological adjuvants activate the innate immune system. This study found that compounds like aluminum hydroxide activate complement pathways and induce cytokine release, crucial for adaptive immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Adjuvant research
- Innate immunity
Background:
- Immunological adjuvants enhance adaptive immune responses.
- Understanding adjuvant mechanisms is key for vaccine development.
- Complement activation and cytokine release are critical innate immune responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the effects of various innate immunological adjuvants on complement activation and cytokine release.
- To identify key mechanisms by which adjuvants stimulate the innate immune system.
- To propose a definition for innate immunological adjuvants based on their function.
Main Methods:
- Immunoassays were used to measure complement activation in serum.
- Whole blood samples were analyzed for cytokine release.
- Diverse innate immunological adjuvants and related compounds were tested.
Main Results:
- Lipopolysaccharides and aluminum hydroxide strongly induced cytokine release and/or complement activation.
- Certain polysaccharides (inulin, zymosan) significantly impacted complement pathways (AP, LP, CP).
- Peptidoglycans primarily affected the lectin pathway (LP), while saponins induced specific cytokines.
Conclusions:
- Adjuvants like aluminum hydroxide activate complement and/or induce cytokine release.
- Complement activation and cytokine release are defining features of innate immunological adjuvants.
- These innate immune activations attract adaptive immune cells, enhancing overall immune response.
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