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Updated: Jun 23, 2026
Immunopeptidomics: Isolation of Mouse and Human MHC Class I- and II-Associated Peptides for Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Published on: October 15, 2021
Bioinformatics, expression, and immunogenicity analysis of MPXV A7 protein
Chenyi Wang1, Jiaqi Xiong1, Hao Zhou2
1Institute of Pathogenic Microorganism, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330045, China; Nanchang City Key Laboratory of Animal Virus and Genetic Engineering, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330045, China; College of Bioscience and Engineering, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, Jiangxi, 330045, China.
Researchers explored the monkeypox virus (MPXV) A7 protein, finding it highly conserved and immunogenic. This study supports developing mpox serodiagnostic tools and subunit vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The 2022 mpox outbreak, declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, highlighted the need for effective countermeasures.
- Genomic variability of the monkeypox virus (MPXV) complicates vaccine development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the immunogenicity of the MPXV A7 protein.
- To assess the potential of A7 protein as a target for diagnostics and vaccines.
Main Methods:
- Bioinformatic analysis identified conserved B-cell epitopes in the A7 protein.
- Recombinant A7 protein was expressed and purified.
- Mice were immunized with A7 protein to evaluate immune responses.
Main Results:
- The A7 protein is highly conserved across orthopoxviruses.
- Immunization induced strong humoral and cellular immune responses.
- High-titer specific antibodies (up to 1:409,600) were generated, showing high specificity and reactivity.
Conclusions:
- The MPXV A7 protein is immunogenic and a potential candidate for subunit vaccines.
- Findings support the development of mpox serodiagnostic reagents.
- Further research into A7 protein's vaccine potential is warranted.
