Novel Inactivated Subtype B Avian Metapneumovirus Vaccine Induced Humoral and Cellular Immune Responses
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Updated: Nov 25, 2025
Influenza A Virus Studies in a Mouse Model of Infection
Published on: September 7, 2017
Yuanling Bao1, Mengmeng Yu1, Peng Liu1
1State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Avian Immunosuppressive Diseases Division, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, The Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150069, China.
Abstract:
Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV), a highly contagious agent, is widespread and causes acute upper respiratory tract disease in chickens and turkeys. However, currently, there is no vaccine licensed in China. Herein, we describe the development of an inactivated aMPV/B vaccine using the aMPV/B strain LN16. Combined with a novel adjuvant containing immune-stimulating complexes (ISCOMs), the novel vaccine could induce high virus-specific and VN antibodies. In addition, it activated B and T lymphocytes and promoted the expression of IL-4 and IFN-γ. Importantly, boosting vaccination with the inactivated aMPV/B vaccine could provide 100% protection against aMPV/B infection with reduced virus shedding and turbinate inflammation. The protection efficacy could last for at least 6 months. This study yielded a novel inactivated aMPV/B vaccine that could serve as the first vaccine candidate in China, thus contributing to the control of aMPV/B and promoting the development of the poultry industry.
Insights
A new inactivated avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) vaccine, combined with an adjuvant, effectively protects chickens and turkeys. This novel vaccine offers a promising solution for controlling aMPV in China.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Immunology
- Poultry Health
Background:
- Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV) causes significant respiratory disease in poultry.
- There is a lack of licensed vaccines for aMPV in China.
- aMPV/B is a prevalent subtype affecting chickens and turkeys.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a novel inactivated vaccine against aMPV/B.
- To assess the vaccine's immunogenicity and protective efficacy in poultry.
- To provide the first vaccine candidate for aMPV control in China.
Main Methods:
- Development of an inactivated aMPV/B vaccine using the LN16 strain.
- Formulation with a novel immune-stimulating complexes (ISCOMs) adjuvant.
- Evaluation of humoral and cellular immune responses, including antibody titers, lymphocyte activation, and cytokine expression (IL-4, IFN-γ).
- Assessment of protection against aMPV/B challenge, including virus shedding and histopathological changes.
Main Results:
- The vaccine induced high virus-specific and virus-neutralizing (VN) antibodies.
- It stimulated B and T lymphocyte activation and promoted IL-4 and IFN-γ expression.
- Boosting vaccination provided 100% protection against aMPV/B infection.
- Reduced virus shedding and turbinate inflammation were observed post-challenge.
- Protective efficacy was sustained for at least 6 months.
Conclusions:
- A novel inactivated aMPV/B vaccine with an ISCOMs adjuvant demonstrates strong immunogenicity and protective potential.
- This vaccine candidate offers a viable strategy for controlling aMPV in China.
- The development contributes to advancing poultry health and industry development.
