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This article discusses the development of a potential treatment for shrimp allergy using hypoallergenic chimeric virus-like particles (VLPs). The VLPs were designed to display the major shrimp allergen, Pen m 1, and were shown to elicit blocking IgG antibody responses. The VLPs exhibited reduced allergenicity compared to the soluble form of Pen m 1 and induced a Th1-biased immune response in mice. Further research is needed to investigate the reactogenicity and therapeutic capacity of the VLPs in animal models of shrimp allergy. The study was funded by various organizations and the authors declare no conflict of interest. [Extracted from the article]

Developing protein‐based vaccines against bacteria has proved much more challenging than producing similar immunisations against viruses. Currently, anti‐bacterial vaccines are designed using methods based on reverse vaccinology. These identify broadly conserved, immunogenic proteins using a combination of genomic and high‐throughput laboratory data. While this approach has successfully generated multiple rationally designed formulations that show promising immunogenicity in animal models, few have been licensed. The difficulty of inducing protective immunity in humans with such vaccines mirrors the ability of many bacteria to recolonise individuals despite recognition by natural polyvalent antibody repertoires. As bacteria express too many antigens to evade all adaptive immune responses through mutation, they must instead inhibit the efficacy of such host defences through expressing surface structures that interface with the immune system. Therefore, 'immune interface interference' (I3) vaccines that target these features should synergistically directly target bacteria and prevent them from inhibiting responses to other surface antigens. This approach may help us understand the efficacy of the two recently introduced immunisations against serotype B meningococci, which both target the Factor H‐binding protein (fHbp) that inhibits complement deposition on the bacterial surface. Therefore, I3 vaccine designs may help overcome the current challenges of developing protein‐based vaccines to prevent bacterial infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article addresses the need to enhance T cell-based strategies to counteract the H3N2 influenza virus, highlighting their potential as universal preventive measures. Topics discussed include the challenges of accurate diagnosis and effective vaccination, the critical role of T cells in combating influenza, and the need for further research and standardized methods to optimize T cell vaccine efficacy.

Mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) have shown to stimulate immune response in different fish species, but the results may appear contradictory and have not been tested in conjunction with vaccination. We hypothesized that dietary MOS supplementation could enhance efficacy and immune responses after immunization with a novel hydrogen peroxide‐inactivated vaccine. Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, fingerlings were distributed into four groups (supplemented or not, vaccinated or not) and were used to determine immune and hematological parameters and somatic indexes. For the bacterial challenge and vaccine efficacy test, fish were assigned to five experimental groups. Twenty‐eight days after the feeding trial and vaccination, the groups were challenged intraperitoneally and monitored for 21 days. The relative percent survival of the groups basal diet‐vaccinated and MOS diet‐vaccinated were 98.1% and 100.0%, respectively. The dietary inclusion of MOS after vaccination for 28 days had no influence on vaccine efficacy, which could be explained because of the high efficacy of the vaccine itself. Therefore, we suggest that the contribution of MOS supplementation to immune responses after vaccination in fish would be greater for vaccines with lower efficacy, or when tested for heterologous challenges or for crossed protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The efficacy of immunization against an airborne pathogen depends in part on its ability to induce antibodies at the major entry site of the virus, the mucosa. Recent studies have revealed that mucosal immunity is poorly activated after vaccination with messenger RNA vaccines, thus failing in blocking virus acquisition upon its site of initial exposure. Little information is available about the induction of mucosal immunity by inactivated and recombinant coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccines. This study aims to investigate this topic. Methods: Saliva and plasma samples from 440 healthy Congolese were collected including (1) fully vaccinated 2 month postvaccination with either an inactivated or a recombinant COVID‐19 vaccine and (2) nonvaccinated control group. Total anti‐severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 receptor‐binding domain IgG and IgA antibodies were assessed using in‐house enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays for both specimens. Findings: Altogether, the positivity of IgG was significantly higher in plasma than in saliva samples both in vaccinated and nonvaccinated control groups. Inversely, IgA positivity was slightly higher in saliva than in plasma of vaccinated group. The overall IgG and IgA levels were respectively over 103 and 14 times lower in saliva than in plasma samples. We found a strong positive correlation between IgG in saliva and plasma also between IgA in both specimens (r =.70 for IgG and r =.52 for IgA). Interestingly, contrary to IgG, the level of salivary IgA was not different between seropositive control group and seropositive vaccinated group. No significant difference was observed between recombinant and inactivated COVID‐19 vaccines in total IgG and IgA antibody concentration release 2 months postvaccination both in plasma and saliva. Conclusion: Inactivated and recombinant COVID‐19 vaccines in use in the Republic of Congo poorly activated mucosal IgA‐mediated antibody response 2 months postvaccination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Malaria exists as an endemic in many countries including Bangladesh and the malaria vaccine is not yet available here. The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and acceptance of the malaria vaccination among the parents of children under the age of five in Bangladesh's malaria‐endemic areas and the sociodemographic, behavioural, and household factors associated with the acceptance and knowledge of the malaria vaccine. Methods: From January to March 2022, a cross‐sectional study was conducted in all five malaria‐endemic districts of Bangladesh, involving 405 parents of children under the age of 5 who met the inclusion criteria. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze the factor affecting parents' acceptance and knowledge of malaria vaccination in children under five and other variables. Results: Majority (54%) of the respondents were mothers. Almost half (49%) of the respondents were aged between 26 and 35 years old and around 90% were from rural areas. A small portion (20%) of the participants were housewives and 46% of them completed primary education. Overall, 70% of the study participants reported that they would accept malaria vaccination independently. About one‐fourth (25%) heard about the malaria vaccine and 48% of them mentioned health professionals as the source of information. Knowledge of malaria vaccination was found associated with residence, income, and family size. Acceptance and knowledge were both associated with residence, education, occupation, income, and family size. In a multivariable analysis, housing structure, house wall, house window, knowledge of malaria, testing for malaria, and being diagnosed with malaria were all associated with knowledge of and acceptance of getting vaccinated against malaria. Conclusions: The present study highlights the necessity of creating awareness of malaria vaccines in epidemic areas of Bangladesh. This study offers crucial data to develop a policy for a novel malaria vaccine, supporting its adoption in Bangladesh. Public Contribution: This study was based on interviews. The interviewees were recruited as public representatives from the malaria‐endemic area to assist us in building an understanding of knowledge and acceptance of the malaria vaccine among parents of under‐five children in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To clarify the characteristics in immunogenicity and safety of inactivated SARS‐Cov‐2 vaccines among HIV‐infected individuals, a longitudinal cohort study was performed on HIV‐infected and HIV‐uninfected participants with no history of COVID‐19 infection and COVID‐19 vaccine inoculation. Participants information and adverse events were collected. Blood samples were collected on the same day before vaccination, 21 days after the first shot, 28 days after the second shot, 6 months after the second vaccination and 14 days after the third dose to test anti‐receptor‐binding domain IgG antibody, viral load, CD4+, CD8+ T cell count. Our result showed that although HIV‐infected adults with low nadir CD4+ T cell count ≤ 350 cells/mm3 generate significantly lower immune response after three shots of vaccine compared with HIV‐negative controls, 100% of all the HIV‐infected and healthy controls were seroconverted after the third shot. Seroconversion ratio and antibody level of 190 days after two shots of vaccination for HIV‐infected with nadir CD4+ T cell count ≤ 350 were significantly lower than that of healthy controls. No significant difference was found in viral load among blood samples collected at each time points. CD4 and CD4/CD8 ratio value were found increased greatly after each shot of inoculation in HIV‐infected individuals with nadir CD4+ T cell count ≤ 350. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that among HIV‐infected individuals, PLWH with CD4+ T cell count ≤ 350 were less likely experience seroconversion 21 days after the first shot, and less likely maintained antibody immunity 6 months post 2nd dose. Adverse events after each inoculation were not serious and recovered within 1 week. In conclusion, inactivated COVID‐19 vaccine was safe and effective in people living with HIV after three shots of vaccination. HIV‐infected individuals with low nadir CD4+ T cell count ≤ 350 was associated with a nonoptimal antibody response. Further vaccination strategies could be developed for those with low CD4+ T cell counts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study published in the Journal of Medical Virology explores the potential of a novel influenza viral vectored vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). RSV is a common virus that can cause severe respiratory symptoms, particularly in infants and young children. The study used a modified version of a cold-adapted influenza A virus vaccine to express a protective antigen from RSV. The vaccine was found to induce strong immune responses and protect mice and cotton rats from RSV infection and lung pathology. While further research is needed to confirm safety and effectiveness, these preliminary findings suggest that this vaccine could be a promising candidate for future clinical evaluation. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Cystic echinococcosis (CE), a zoonotic parasitic disease caused by Echinococcus granulosus, remains a public health and socioeconomic issue worldwide, making its prevention and treatment of vital importance. The aim of this study was to investigate changes in the intestinal microbiota of mice immunized with three peptide vaccines based on the recombinant antigen of E. granulosus, P29 (rEg.P29), with the hope of providing more valuable information for the development of vaccines against CE. Methods: Three peptide vaccines, rEg.P29T, rEg.P29B, and rEg.P29T + B, were prepared based on rEg.P29, and a subcutaneous immunization model was established. The intestinal floras of mice in the different immunization groups were analyzed by 16 S rRNA gene sequencing. Results: The intestinal microbiota analysis at both immunization time points revealed that Firmicutes, Bacteroidota, and Verrucomicrobiota were the predominant flora at the phylum level, while at the genus level, Akkermansia, unclassified_Muribaculaceae, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, and uncultured_rumen bacterium were the dominant genera. Some probiotics in the intestines of mice were significantly increased after immunization with the peptide vaccines, such as Lactobacillus_taiwanensis, Lactobacillus_reuteri, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, Bacteroides_acidifaciens, and so forth. Meanwhile, some harmful or conditionally pathogenic bacteria were decreased, such as Turicibacter sanguinis, Desulfovibrio_fairfieldensis, Clostridium_sp, and so forth, most of which are associated with inflammatory or infectious diseases. Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis revealed that the differential flora were enriched in multiple metabolic pathways, primarily biological systems, human diseases, metabolism, cellular processes, and environmental information processing. Conclusion: In this study, we comprehensively analyzed and compared changes in the intestinal microbiota of mice immunized with three peptide vaccines as well as their related metabolic pathways, providing a theoretical background for the development of novel vaccines against E. granulosus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Typhimurium antigen peptides, FliC SB 427-441 sb and LpdA SB 340-350 sb were essential for activating TCRV 6 SP + sp CD4 SP + sp T cells. A TCRV 6+ Th1 cell subsets during Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium infection Typhimurium, the TCRV 6 SP + sp CD4 SP + sp T cell clones were expanded, but not TCRV 6 SP + sp CD8 SP + sp T cells (Figure 1D and Figure S4A). Further, the percentage of TCRV 6 SP + sp T cells was higher significantly in activated CD4 SP + sp T cells (Figure 1N and Figure S9G-I). [Extracted from the article]

The efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors is limited in refractory solid tumors. T‐cell receptor gene‐modified T (TCR‐T)‐cell therapy has attracted attention as a new immunotherapy for refractory cold tumors. We first investigated the preclinical efficacy and mode of action of TCR‐T cells combined with the pullulan nanogel:long peptide antigen (LPA) vaccine in a mouse sarcoma model that is resistant to immune checkpoint inhibition. Without lymphodepletion, the pullulan nanogel:LPA vaccine markedly increased the number of TCR‐T cells in the draining lymph node and tumor tissue. This change was associated with enhanced CXCR3 expression in TCR‐T cells in the draining lymph node. In the phase 1 trial, autologous New York esophageal squamous cell carcinoma 1 (NY‐ESO‐1)‐specific TCR‐T cells were infused twice into HLA‐matched patients with NY‐ESO‐1+ soft tissue sarcoma (STS). The pullulan nanogel:LPA vaccine contains an epitope recognized by TCR‐T cells, and it was subcutaneously injected 1 day before and 7 days after the infusion of TCR‐T cells. Lymphodepletion was not performed. Three patients with refractory synovial sarcoma (SS) were treated. Two out of the three patients developed cytokine release syndrome (CRS) with low‐to‐moderate cytokine level elevation. We found obvious tumor shrinkage lasting for more than 2 years by tumor imaging and long‐term persistence of TCR‐T cells in one patient. In conclusion, NY‐ESO‐1‐specific TCR‐T‐cell therapy plus vaccination with the pullulan nanogel carrying an LPA containing the NY‐ESO‐1 epitope without lymphodepletion is feasible and can induce promising long‐lasting therapeutic effects in refractory SS (Registration ID: JMA‐IIA00346). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent and use of antimicrobials have played a key role in treating potentially life‐threatening infectious diseases, improving health, and saving the lives of millions of people worldwide. However, the emergence of multidrug resistant (MDR) pathogens has been a significant health challenge that has compromised the ability to prevent and treat a wide range of infectious diseases that were once treatable. Vaccines offer potential as a promising alternative to fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR) infectious diseases. Vaccine technologies include reverse vaccinology, structural biology methods, nucleic acid (DNA and mRNA) vaccines, generalised modules for membrane antigens, bioconjugates/glycoconjugates, nanomaterials and several other emerging technological advances that are offering a potential breakthrough in the development of efficient vaccines against pathogens. This review covers the opportunities and advancements in vaccine discovery and development targeting bacterial pathogens. We reflect on the impact of the already‐developed vaccines targeting bacterial pathogens and the potential of those currently under different stages of preclinical and clinical trials. More importantly, we critically and comprehensively analyse the challenges while highlighting the key indices for future vaccine prospects. Finally, the issues and concerns of AMR for low‐income countries (sub‐Saharan Africa) and the challenges with vaccine integration, discovery and development in this region are critically evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A plethora of studies, both experimental and epidemiological, have indicated the occurrence of associations between infections by gastrointestinal (GI) helminths and the composition and function of the host gut microbiota. Given the worldwide risk and spread of anthelmintic resistance, particularly for GI parasites of livestock, a better understanding of the mechanisms underpinning the relationships between GI helminths and the gut microbiome, and between the latter and host health, may assist the development of novel microbiome‐targeting and other bacteria‐based strategies for parasite control. In this article, we review current and prospective methods to manipulate the host gut microbiome, and/or to exploit the immune stimulatory and modulatory properties of gut bacteria (and their products) to counteract the negative impact of GI worm infections; we also discuss the potential applications of these intervention strategies in programmes aimed to aid the fight against helminth diseases of humans and livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Staphylococcus aureus has been widely reported to be majorly responsible for causing nosocomial infections worldwide. Due to an increase in antibiotic‐resistant strains, the development of an effective vaccine against the bacteria is the most viable alternative. Therefore, in the current work, an effort has been undertaken to develop a novel peptide‐based vaccine construct against S aureus that can potentially evoke the B and T cell immune responses. The fibronectin‐binding proteins are an attractive target as they play a prominent role in bacterial adherence and host cell invasion and are also well conserved among rapidly mutating pathogens. Therefore, highly immunogenic linear B lymphocytes (LBL), cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL), and helper T lymphocytes (HTL) epitopes were identified from the antigenic fibronectin‐binding proteins A and B (FnBPA and FnBPB) of S aureus using immunoinformatics approaches. The selected peptides were confirmed to be non‐allergenic, non‐toxic, and with a high binding affinity to the majority of human leukocyte antigens (HLA) alleles. Consequently, the multi‐peptide vaccine construct was developed by fusing the screened epitopes (three LBL, five CTL, and two HTL) together with the suitable adjuvant and linkers. In addition, the tertiary conformation of the peptide construct was modeled and later docked to the Toll‐like receptor 2. Subsequently, a molecular dynamics simulation of 100 ns was employed to corroborate the stability of the designed vaccine‐receptor complex. Besides exhibiting high immunogenicity and conformational stability, the developed vaccine was observed to possess wide population coverage of 99.51% worldwide. Additional in vivo and in vitro validation studies would certainly corroborate the designed vaccine construct to have improved prophylactic efficacy against S aureus. Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of nosocomial infections worldwide, and the development of an effective vaccine against it is the most viable alternative. This work has been undertaken to develop a novel peptide‐based vaccine construct against S. aureus that can evoke the B and T cell immune responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the continuation of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and the emergence of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) variants, the control of the spread of the virus remains urgent. Various animals, including cats, ferrets, hamsters, nonhuman primates, minks, tree shrews, fruit bats, and rabbits, are susceptible to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection naturally or experimentally. Therefore, to avoid animals from becoming mixing vessels of the virus, vaccination of animals should be considered. In the present study, we report the establishment of an efficient and stable system using Newcastle disease virus (NDV) as a vector to express SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein/subunit for the rapid generation of vaccines against SARS‐CoV‐2 in animals. Our data showed that the S and S1 protein was sufficiently expressed in rNDV‐S and rNDV‐S1‐infected cells, respectively. The S protein was incorporated into and displayed on the surface of rNDV‐S viral particles. Intramuscular immunization with rNDV‐S was found to induce the highest level of binding and neutralizing antibodies, as well as strong S‐specific T‐cell response in mice. Intranasal immunization with rNDV‐S1 provoked a robust T‐cell response but barely any detectable antibodies. Overall, the NDV‐vectored vaccine candidates were able to induce profound humoral and cellular immunity, which will provide a good system for developing vaccines targeting both T‐cell and antibody responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pseudorabies virus (PRV), as a neuroherpes virus, leads to heavy economic losses in the pig industry worldwide. This study was designed to establish recombinant PRV glycoprotein B (gB), C, and D proteins as PRV diagnostic antigens. The gB/C, gC/D, and gB/C/D fusion sequences were synthesized and inserted into pET‐28a+ vector to generate the recombinant plasmids. The identified positive recombinant plasmids were transformed into BL21 Escherichia coli. The results of the polymerase chain reaction and enzyme digestion showed that the gB/C, gC/D, and gB/C/D fusion proteins were successfully expressed. An indirect sandwich ELISA was developed with the gB/C, gC/D, and gB/C/D as coating antigens. The results of indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analysis of 184 PRV‐positive porcine sera showed that the positive coincidence rates of three recombinant proteins ELISAs relative to IDEXX kit were 98.25%, 95.32%, and 98.83%, and the negative coincidence rates were 85.71%, 75% and 100%, respectively. The inter and intra batch repeatability tests showed that the coefficient of variations of our kits were all less than 5%. Especially, the gB/C/D‐ELISA has the highest specificity and sensitivity among the ELISA methods developed in this study. We established a series expression system of gB/C, gC/D, and gB/C/D antigen epitope genes and Recombinant protein‐based indirect ELISA, providing new ideas for PV diagnosis and vaccine development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: High‐magnitude CD8+ T cell responses are associated with mild COVID‐19 disease; however, the underlying characteristics that define CD8+ T cell‐mediated protection are not well understood. The antigenic breadth and the immunodominance hierarchies of epitope‐specific CD8+ T cells remain largely unexplored and are essential for the development of next‐generation broad‐protective vaccines. This study identified a broad spectrum of conserved SARS‐CoV‐2 CD8+ T cell epitopes and defined their respective immunodominance and phenotypic profiles following SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Methods: CD8+ T cells from 51 convalescent COVID‐19 donors were analysed for their ability to recognise 133 predicted and previously described SARS‐CoV‐2‐derived peptides restricted by 11 common HLA class I allotypes using heterotetramer combinatorial coding, which combined with phenotypic markers allowed in‐depth ex vivo profiling of CD8+ T cell responses at quantitative and phenotypic levels. Results: A comprehensive panel of 49 mostly conserved SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific CD8+ T cell epitopes, including five newly identified low‐magnitude epitopes, was established. We confirmed the immunodominance of HLA‐A*01:01/ORF1ab1637–1646 and B*07:02/N105–113 and identified B*35:01/N325–333 as a third epitope with immunodominant features. The magnitude of subdominant epitope responses, including A*03:01/N361–369 and A*02:01/S269–277, depended on the donors' HLA‐I context. All epitopes expressed prevalent memory phenotypes, with the highest memory frequencies in severe COVID‐19 donors. Conclusion: SARS‐CoV‐2 infection induces a predominant CD8+ T memory response directed against a broad spectrum of conserved SARS‐CoV‐2 epitopes, which likely contributes to long‐term protection against severe disease. The observed immunodominance hierarchy emphasises the importance of T cell epitopes derived from nonspike proteins to the overall protective and cross‐reactive immune response, which could aid future vaccine strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess awareness and risk of Q fever among agricultural show attendees. Setting: University of New England's Farm of the Future Pavilion, 2019, Sydney Royal Agricultural Show. Participants: Participants were ≥18 years, fluent in English, Australian residents, and gave their informed consent. Main Outcome Measures: Participants reported whether they had ever heard of Q fever and then completed the 'Q Tool' (www.qfevertool.com), which was used to assess participants' demographics and risk profiles. Cross‐tabulations and logistic regression analyses were used to examine the relationship between these factors. Results: A total of 344 participants were recruited who, in general, lived in major NSW cities and were aged 40–59 years. 62% were aware of Q fever. Living in regional/remote areas and regular contact with livestock, farms, abattoirs and/or feedlots increased the likelihood of Q fever awareness. Direct or indirect contact with feral animals was not associated with Q fever awareness after controlling for the latter risk factors. 40% of participants had a high, 21% a medium, and 30% a low risk of exposure. Slightly less than 10% reported a likely existing immunity or vaccination against Q fever. Among those who were not immune, living in a regional or remote area and Q fever awareness were independently associated with increased likelihood of exposure. Conclusions: Awareness of Q fever was relatively high. Although 61% of participants had a moderate to high risk of exposure to Q fever, they had not been vaccinated. This highlights the need to explore barriers to vaccination including accessibility of providers and associated cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) is responsible for the ongoing global COVID‐19 pandemic. One possibility to control the pandemic is to induce sterilizing immunity through the induction and maintenance of neutralizing antibodies preventing SARS‐CoV‐2 from entering human cells to replicate in. Methods: We report the construction and in vitro and in vivo characterization of a SARS‐CoV‐2 subunit vaccine (PreS‐RBD) based on a structurally folded recombinant fusion protein consisting of two SARS‐CoV‐2 Spike protein receptor‐binding domains (RBD) fused to the N‐ and C‐terminus of hepatitis B virus (HBV) surface antigen PreS to enable the two unrelated proteins serving as immunologic carriers for each other. Results: PreS‐RBD, but not RBD alone, induced a robust and uniform RBD‐specific IgG response in rabbits. Currently available genetic SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines induce mainly transient IgG1 responses in vaccinated subjects whereas the PreS‐RBD vaccine induced RBD‐specific IgG antibodies consisting of an early IgG1 and sustained IgG4 antibody response in a SARS‐CoV‐2 naive subject. PreS‐RBD‐specific IgG antibodies were detected in serum and mucosal secretions, reacted with SARS‐CoV‐2 variants, including the omicron variant of concern and the HBV receptor‐binding sites on PreS of currently known HBV genotypes. PreS‐RBD‐specific antibodies of the immunized subject more potently inhibited the interaction of RBD with its human receptor ACE2 and their virus‐neutralizing titers (VNTs) were higher than median VNTs in a random sample of healthy subjects fully immunized with registered SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines or in COVID‐19 convalescent subjects. Conclusion: The PreS‐RBD vaccine has the potential to serve as a combination vaccine for inducing sterilizing immunity against SARS‐CoV‐2 and HBV by stopping viral replication through the inhibition of cellular virus entry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MRNA vaccines deliver into the host an mRNA that contains a code for a specific antigen. Although the advantages of mRNA vaccines compared with other vaccine types have been explored, existing vaccine approaches remain incredibly successful in averting millions of deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases each year. ( B 1 b ) mRNA is delivered to into the body through a conventional mRNA vaccine, made up of mRNA coding for an antigen of interest surrounded by a lipid nanoparticle. Keywords: Vaccination; Microbiology; Virus diseases; Vaccines; Vaccine preventable disease; Preventive medicine EN Vaccination Microbiology Virus diseases Vaccines Vaccine preventable disease Preventive medicine 71 75 5 07/19/22 20220715 NES 220715 mRNA vaccines can be used for broader infectious diseases prevention and cancer therapy Messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine technology, decades in development as a therapy for cancer and for prevention of infectious diseases but not yet realising a licensed product,1 was rapidly implemented to accelerate the creation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccines. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: Anti‐CD20 monoclonal antibody therapy rapidly depletes > 95% of CD20+ B cells from the circulation. B‐cell depletion is an effective treatment for autoimmune disease and B‐cell malignancies but also increases the risk of respiratory tract infections. This effect on adaptive immunity could be countered by vaccination. We have used mouse models to investigate the effects of B‐cell depletion on pneumococcal vaccination, including protection against infection and timing of vaccination in relation to B‐cell depletion. Methods: C57BL/6 female mice were B‐cell depleted using anti‐CD20 antibody and immunized with two doses of Prevnar‐13 vaccine either before or after anti‐CD20 treatment. B‐cell repertoire and Streptococcus pneumoniae–specific IgG levels were measured using whole‐cell ELISA and flow cytometry antibody‐binding assay. Protection induced by vaccination was assessed by challenging the mice using a S. pneumoniae pneumonia model. Results: Antibody responses to S. pneumoniae were largely preserved in mice B‐cell depleted after vaccination resulting in full protection against pneumococcal infections. In contrast, mice vaccinated with Prevnar‐13 while B cells were depleted (with > 90% reduction in B‐cell numbers) had decreased circulating anti–S. pneumoniae IgG and IgM levels (measured using ELISA and flow cytometry antibody binding assays). However, some antibody responses were maintained, and, although vaccine‐induced protection against S. pneumoniae infection was impaired, septicaemia was still prevented in 50% of challenged mice. Conclusions: This study showed that although vaccine efficacy during periods of profound B‐cell depletion was impaired some protective efficacy was preserved, suggesting that vaccination remains beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abbreviations BAU binding antibody unit COVID-19 coronavirus disease 2019 EBV Epstein-Barr virus ELISA enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay EU enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay unit FHA filamentous hemagglutinin IgG immunoglobulin G mRNA messenger ribonucleic acid PT pertussis toxin SARS-CoV-2 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines are highly effective in preventing severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and disease onset.1 The mRNA contained in vaccines can activate innate immune responses and is also translated into protein antigens in the cytoplasm, which can induce strong humoral and cell-mediated immune responses.2 Since mRNA vaccines can be rapidly designed and developed after identifying the sequence of an emerging infectious agent, this vaccine platform is ideal for producing vaccines against emerging infectious diseases. SARS-CoV-2 S protein, N protein, and membrane protein all cross-react with thyroid peroxidase.9 In addition, polyclonal B cell activation10 and bystander activation enhance cytokine production and expansion of autoreactive B and T cells. Two doses of the BNT162b2 vaccine did not change antibody titers against the 9 microorganisms (11 antibodies) at all. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: The upper respiratory tract is the major entry site for Streptococcus pyogenes and influenza virus. Vaccine strategies that activate mucosal immunity could significantly reduce morbidity and mortality because of these pathogens. The severity of influenza is significantly greater if a streptococcal infection occurs during the viraemic period and generally viral infections complicated by a subsequent bacterial infection are known as super‐infections. We describe an innovative vaccine strategy against influenza virus:S. pyogenes super‐infection. Moreover, we provide the first description of a liposomal multi‐pathogen‐based platform that enables the incorporation of both viral and bacterial antigens into a vaccine and constitutes a transformative development. Methods: Specifically, we have explored a vaccination strategy with biocompatible liposomes that express conserved streptococcal and influenza A virus B‐cell epitopes on their surface and contain encapsulated diphtheria toxoid as a source of T‐cell help. The vaccine is adjuvanted by inclusion of the synthetic analogue of monophosphoryl lipid A, 3D‐PHAD. Results: We observe that this vaccine construct induces an Immunoglobulin A (IgA) response in both mice and ferrets. Vaccination reduces viral load in ferrets from influenza challenge and protects mice from both pathogens. Notably, vaccination significantly reduces both mortality and morbidity associated with a super‐infection. Conclusion: The vaccine design is modular and could be adapted to include B‐cell epitopes from other mucosal pathogens where an IgA response is required for protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaccination with inactivated bacterin is the most popular and practical measure to control enzootic pneumonia. After immunisation with inactivated bacterin, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae colonised on the respiratory tract and lung stimulates the humoural immune responses and produces IgG and IgA antibodies. ELISA is a widely used serological method to detect M. hyopneumoniae antibodies. However, commercial IgG‐ELISA kit cannot distinguish between inactivated bacterin‐induced hyperimmune sera and convalescent sera stimulated by natural infection. SIgA‐ELISA method needs to collect nasal swabs, but collecting nasal swabs is not easy to operate. Establishment of a discriminative ELISA detecting humoural IgG from convalescent sera but not hyperimmune sera facilitates to evaluate the natural infection of M. hyopneumoniae after inactivated bacterin vaccination. We expressed and purified a recombinant protein named Mhp366‐N which contains an epitope recognised by the convalescent sera but not hyperimmune sera. The developed discriminative IgG‐ELISA could discriminate between inactivated bacterin‐induced hyperimmune sera and convalescent sera and was reproducible, sensitive and specific to M. hyopneumoniae antibody produced by natural infection. Compared to SIgA‐ELISA method, discriminative IgG‐ELISA was more convenient to detect IgG antibody from sera than IgA from nasal swabs, although it has limited sensitivity in the early stages of infection. Additionally, to some extent, it has a potential to avoid the interference of maternally derived IgG antibodies. The established discriminative IgG‐ELISA was efficient to judge the serological IgG antibodies induced from natural infection or inactivated vaccine stimulation and provided a useful method to investigate and evaluate the live organism infection after the application of inactivated bacterin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "traditional" vaccines generally do not induce human cells to produce viral proteins, and thus, human cells do not expose viral antigens deriving from their proteosynthetic activity. On the contrary, the genetic vaccines against COVID-19 induce human cells to produce the spike protein, relying intrinsically to an autoimmune reaction, extended to all the cells that intake the genetic material and start the protein synthesis. Circulating severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine antigen detected in the plasma of mRNA-1273 vaccine recipients. [Extracted from the article]

Keywords were "pemphigus" or "pemphigoid" or "bullous" or "blistering" combined with "COVID-19 vaccination" or "COVID-19 vaccine" or "SARS-CoV-2 vaccination" or "SARS-CoV-2 vaccine". Association between vaccination and immunobullous disorders: a brief, updated systematic review with focus on COVID-19 The COVID-19 vaccines used were mRNA vaccines (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna; I n i = 756, 81.1%), adenoviral vector vaccines (AstraZeneca or Johnson & Johnson; I n i = 144, 15.5%), and inactivated vaccines (Sinovac/CoronaVac or Sinopharm; I n i = 17, 1.8%), whereas information about the vaccine type was not available in 18 (1.9%) patients. [Extracted from the article]

Low vaccine immunogenicity and tumor heterogenicity greatly limit the therapeutic effect of tumor vaccine. In this study, a novel injectable adhesive hydrogel, based on thermosensitive nanogels containing catechol groups and loaded with in situ‐forming MnO2 nanoparticles, is constructed to overcome these issues. The concentrated nanogel dispersion transforms into an adhesive hydrogel in situ after intratumoral injection. The photothermal effect of the loaded MnO2 nanoparticles induces immunogenic cell death to release mass autologous tumor‐derived protein antigens under near‐infrared irradiation, which act as ideal immune stimulating substances avoiding the problem of tumor heterogenicity and are captured by the in situ‐forming adhesive hydrogel. The antigens‐captured adhesive hydrogel acts as an "antigen reservoir" and releases these captured antigens to recruit more dendritic cells to stimulate an intensive and lasting anti‐tumor immune response mediated by CD8+ T cells. The primary tumors can be almost completely disappeared within 4 days without relapse, and the growth of the distal tumors and rechallenged tumors are also effectively inhibited by the treatment with the injectable adhesive hydrogel‐based photothermal therapy. Therefore, the proposed "antigen reservoir" strategy shows the great potential application as an in situ‐forming personalized vaccine to enhancing the cancer immune therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of sustainable bioaerogel by using renewable biomass via eco‐friendly techniques is a meaningful research topic. This study reports a facile bottom‐up green strategy to construct dimensionally stable bioaerogel derived from bacterial cellulose (BC). Taking advantages of the natural hierarchical and interconnected network structure of BC, the preparation of bioaerogel comprises directional freezing, followed by freeze‐drying approach. Aside from the multifunctional characteristics such as high porosity, low density, and large specific surface area, the resultant BC bioaerogels show superhydrophilic property, excellent water absorption, and swelling characteristics. In addition, the extremely compressed bioaerogel film exhibits flexibility and good mechanical properties. And the BC bioaerogels display a low coefficient of thermal conductivity (25.8 mW m−1 K−1). Moreover, the BC bioaerogels reveal excellent sound absorption at board frequencies from 200 to 6000 Hz with a maximum sound‐absorption coefficient of 0.97. The BC bioaerogel is further used as the green, sustainable, and degradable cigarette filter tip, exhibiting good adsorption effect for the smoke main components. In summary, this study provides a feasible solution to rationally construct lightweight, high porous, heat‐insulating, and highly efficient sound‐adsorption BC bioaerogel, which has potential applications in the future as green advanced functional materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The global outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) urgently requires an effective vaccine for prevention. In this study, 66 epitopes containing pentapeptides of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein in the IEDB database were compared with the amino acid sequence of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein, and 66 potentially immune‐related peptides of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein were obtained. Based on the single‐nucleotide polymorphisms analysis of spike protein of 1218 SARS‐CoV‐2 isolates, 52 easily mutated sites were identified and used for vaccine epitope screening. The best vaccine candidate epitopes in the 66 peptides of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein were screened out through mutation and immunoinformatics analysis. The best candidate epitopes were connected by different linkers in silico to obtain vaccine candidate sequences. The results showed that 16 epitopes were relatively conservative, immunological, nontoxic, and nonallergenic, could induce the secretion of cytokines, and were more likely to be exposed on the surface of the spike protein. They were both B‐ and T‐cell epitopes, and could recognize a certain number of HLA molecules and had high coverage rates in different populations. Moreover, epitopes 897‐913 were predicted to have possible cross‐immunoprotection for SARS‐CoV and SARS‐CoV‐2. The results of vaccine candidate sequences screening suggested that sequences (without linker, with linker GGGSGGG, EAAAK, GPGPG, and KK, respectively) were the best. The proteins translated by these sequences were relatively stable, with a high antigenic index and good biological activity. Our study provided vaccine candidate epitopes and sequences for the research of the SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoparticles (NPs) can serve as a promising vaccine delivery platform for improving pharmacological property and codelivery of antigens and adjuvants. However, NP‐based vaccines are generally associated with complex synthesis and postmodification procedures, which pose technical and manufacturing challenges for tailor‐made vaccine production. Here, modularly programmed, polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐based NP vaccines are reported for simple production of personalized cancer vaccines. Briefly, PEI is conjugated with neoantigens by facile coupling chemistry, followed by electrostatic assembly with CpG adjuvants, leading to the self‐assembly of nontoxic, sub‐50 nm PEI NPs. Importantly, PEI NPs promote activation and antigen cross‐presentation of antigen‐presenting cells and cross‐priming of neoantigen‐specific CD8+ T cells. Surprisingly, after only a single intratumoral injection, PEI NPs with optimal PEGylation elicit as high as ≈30% neoantigen‐specific CD8+ T cell response in the systemic circulation and sustain elevated CD8+ T cell response over 3 weeks. PEI‐based nanovaccines exert potent antitumor efficacy against pre‐established local tumors as well as highly aggressive metastatic tumors. PEI engineering for modular incorporation of neoantigens and adjuvants offers a promising strategy for rapid and facile production of personalized cancer vaccines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: A major COVID‐19 vaccine strategy is to induce antibodies that prevent interaction between the Spike protein's receptor‐binding domain (RBD) and angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). These vaccines will also induce T‐cell responses. However, concerns were raised that aberrant vaccine‐induced immune responses may exacerbate disease. We aimed to identify minimal epitopes on the RBD that would induce antibody responses that block the interaction of the RBD and ACE2 as a strategy leading to an effective vaccine with reduced risk of inducing immunopathology. Methods: We procured a series of overlapping 20‐amino acid peptides spanning the RBD and asked which were recognised by plasma from COVID‐19 convalescent patients. Identified epitopes were conjugated to diphtheria‐toxoid and used to vaccinate mice. Immune sera were tested for binding to the RBD and for their ability to block the interaction of the RBD and ACE2. Results: Seven putative vaccine epitopes were identified. Memory B‐cells (MBCs) specific for one of the epitopes were identified in the blood of convalescent patients. When used to vaccinate mice, six induced antibodies that bound recRBD and three induced antibodies that could partially block the interaction of the RBD and ACE2. However, when the sera were combined in pairs, we observed significantly enhanced inhibition of binding of RBD to ACE2. Two of the peptides were located in the main regions of the RBD known to contact ACE2. Of significant importance to vaccine development, two of the peptides were in regions that are invariant in the UK and South African strains. Conclusion: COVID‐19 convalescent patients have SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific antibodies and MBCs, the specificities of which can be defined with short peptides. Epitope‐specific antibodies synergistically block RBD–ACE2 interaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is a common human pathogenic bacterium that is associated with gastric diseases. The current leading clinical therapy is combination antibiotics, but this treatment has safety issues, especially the induction of drug resistance. Therefore, developing a safe and effective vaccine against H. pylori is one of the best alternatives. Objective: To develop Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae)‐based oral vaccines and then demonstrate the feasibility of this platform for preventing H. pylori infection in the absence of a mucosal adjuvant. Materials and Methods: Saccharomyces cerevisiae (S. cerevisiae)‐based oral vaccines, including EBY100/pYD1‐UreB and EBY100/pYD1‐VacA, were generated and analyzed by Western blot, Immunofluorescence analysis, flow cytometric assay, and indirect enzyme‐link immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Further, antibody responses induced by oral administration of EBY100/pYD1‐UreB, EBY100/pYD1‐VacA, or EBY100/pYD1‐UreB + EBY100/pYD1‐VacA were measured in a mouse model. Lastly, the vaccinated mice were infected with H. pylori SS1, and colonization in the stomach were evaluated. Results: Saccharomyces cerevisiae‐based H. pylori oral vaccines were successfully constructed. Mice orally administered with EBY100/pYD1‐UreB, EBY100/pYD1‐VacA, or EBY100/pYD1‐UreB + EBY100/pYD1‐VacA exhibited a significant humoral immune response as well as a mucosal immune response. Importantly, S. cerevisiae‐based oral vaccines could effectively reduce bacterial loads with statistical significance after H. pylori infection. Conclusions: Our study shows that S. cerevisiae‐based platforms can serve as an alternative approach for the future development of promising bacterial oral vaccine candidates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis remains a major source of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with 10 million cases and 1.5 million deaths in 2018. Achieving 'End TB' prevention and care goals by 2035 will likely require a new tuberculosis vaccine. The tuberculosis vaccine development pipeline has seen encouraging progress; however, questions around their population impact and implementation remain. Mathematical modelling investigates these questions to inform vaccine development and deployment strategies. We provide an update on the current vaccine development pipeline, and a systematic literature review of mathematical modelling of the epidemiological impact of new tuberculosis vaccines. Fourteen prophylactic tuberculosis vaccine candidates are currently in clinical trials. Two candidates have shown promise in phase II proof-of-concept efficacy trials: M72/AS01E demonstrated 49.7% (95% CI; 2.1, 74.2) protection against tuberculosis disease, and BCG revaccination demonstrated 45.4% (95% CI; 6.4, 68.1) protection against sustained Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. Since the last modelling review, new studies have investigated the epidemiological impact of differential vaccine characteristics, age targeting and spatial/risk group targeting. Critical research priorities for M72/AS01E include completing the currently in-design trial, powered to improve the precision of efficacy estimates, include uninfected populations and further assess safety and immunogenicity in HIV-infected people. For BCG revaccination, the priority is completing the ongoing confirmation of efficacy trial. Critical modelling gaps remain on the full value proposition of vaccines, comparisons with other interventions and more realistic implementation strategies. Using carefully designed trials and modelling, we must prepare for success, to ensure that new vaccines will be promptly received by those most in need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Immune tolerance is the main challenge in the field of cancer vaccines, so modified peptide sequences or naturally occurring mutated versions of cancer‐related wild‐type (WT) antigens represent a promising pathway. However, the low immunogenicity of mutation‐induced neoantigens and, particularly, their incapacity to activate CD8+ T cells are generating doubts on the success of neoantigen‐based cancer vaccines in clinical trials. We developed a novel vaccine approach based on a new class of vaccine immunogens, called variable epitope libraries (VELs). We used three regions of survivin (SVN), composed of 40, 49 and 51 amino acids, along with the complete SVN protein to generate the VELs as multiepitope vaccines. BALB/c mice, challenged with the aggressive and highly metastatic 4T1 cell line, were vaccinated in a therapeutic setting. We showed significant tumor growth inhibition and, most importantly, strong suppression of lung metastasis after a single immunization using VEL vaccines. We demonstrated vaccine‐induced broad cellular immune responses concomitant with extensive tumor infiltration of T cells, the activation of CD107a+ IFN‐γ+ T cells in the spleen and a significant increase in the number of CD3+ CD8+ Ly6C+ effector T cells. In addition, we observed the presence of interferon‐γ‐, granzyme B‐ and perforin‐producing lymphocytes along with modifications in the amount of CD11b+ Ly6Cint/low Ly6G+ granulocytic myeloid‐derived suppressor cells and CD4+ CD25+ FoxP3+ regulatory T cells in the lungs and tumors of mice. In summary, we showed that the VELs represent a potent new class of cancer immunotherapy and propose the application of the VEL vaccine concept as a true alternative to currently available vaccine platforms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For salmonid producers, a common threat is Flavobacterium psychrophilum. Recent advancements in bacterial coldwater disease (BCWD) management include the development of a live‐attenuated immersion vaccine that cross‐protects against an array of F. psychrophilum strains. Emerging family Flavobacteriaceae cases associated with clinical disease have been increasing, including pathogenic isolates of Flavobacterium spp. and Chryseobacterium spp. The cross‐protective ability of a live‐attenuated F. psychrophilum vaccine was determined against three virulent Flavobacteriaceae isolates. Juvenile rainbow trout were vaccinated, developed high F. psychrophilum‐specific antibody titres and were challenged with Chryseobacterium spp. isolates (S25 and T28), a Flavobacterium sp. (S21) isolate, a mixed combination of S21:S25:T28, and a standard virulent F. psychrophilum CSF259‐93 strain. Results demonstrated strong protection in the CSF259‐93 vaccinated group (relative per cent survival (RPS)=94.44%) when compared to the relevant CSF259‐93 controls (p <.001). Protection was also observed for vaccinated fish challenged with the S21:S25:T28 mix (RPS = 85.18%; p <.001). However, protection was not observed with the S21, S25 or T28 isolates alone. Analysis of whole‐cell lysates revealed differences in protein banding by SDS‐PAGE, but conserved antigenic regions by Western blot in S25 and T28. Results demonstrate that this live‐attenuated vaccine provided protection against mixed flavobacterial infection and suggest further benefits against flavobacteriosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acinetobacter baumannii, one of the most life‐threatening nosocomial drug‐resistant pathogens, imposes high morbidity and mortality rates, thus highlighting immunization‐based treatments or prevention measures. The selection of appropriate antigens can elicit protective immunity. The gene encoding a fimbrial protein introduced via reverse vaccinology was cloned, expressed and evaluated for immunogenicity in a murine model. Mice immunized with the recombinant protein were challenged with A. baumannii ATCC 19606. Adherence to A549 cell line of specific anti‐sera treated A. baumannii was also assessed. Passive immunity was evaluated in a murine pneumonia model. Indirect ELISA showed a high specific antibody titre. Adherence of A. baumannii to A549 cell line decreased by 40% after incubation with 1:250 dilution of specific anti‐sera. All the actively immunized mice survived. Bacterial load in the spleen and liver of the immunized mice was 3‐fold lower than those of the control. The number of bacteria in the lungs of passively immunized mice was about 6‐fold lower than the control mice. The fimbrial protein could be considered as a promising protective immunogen against A. baumannii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, relying on the human immune system to kill tumour cells has become an effective means of cancer treatment. The development of peptide vaccines, which not only break the immune tolerance of a tumour but also attack malignant cells via specific antitumour immunity, has received increased attention in tumour immunization therapy due to their safety and easy preparation. The use of large‐scale sequencing technology enables the continuous discovery of new tumour antigens. With improved accuracy of epitope prediction by computer simulation and the usage of a tetramer assay, cytotoxic lymphocyte epitopes can be screened and identified more easily. Transmembrane peptide and nanoparticle technologies promote more effective intake and delivery of antigens. Consequently, considerable evolution from universal to personalized peptide vaccines has taken place, and such vaccines induce an efficient and specific immune response targeting tumour neoantigens. Recently, genomic analysis and bioinformatics approaches have greatly facilitated the breakthrough of personalized peptide vaccines targeting neoantigens, resulting in a renewed interest in this field. Further, the combination of tumour peptide vaccines with checkpoint blockades may improve patient outcomes. In this review, we discuss the development of tumour peptide vaccines and the new technological progress, from universalization to personalization, to highlight the substantial promise of tumour peptide vaccines in clinical cancer immunotherapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, a novel coronavirus (SARS‐COV‐2) emerged which is responsible for the recent outbreak in Wuhan, China. Genetically, it is closely related to SARS‐CoV and MERS‐CoV. The situation is getting worse and worse, therefore, there is an urgent need for designing a suitable peptide vaccine component against the SARS‐COV‐2. Here, we characterized spike glycoprotein to obtain immunogenic epitopes. Next, we chose 13 Major Histocompatibility Complex‐(MHC) I and 3 MHC‐II epitopes, having antigenic properties. These epitopes are usually linked to specific linkers to build vaccine components and molecularly dock on toll‐like receptor‐5 to get binding affinity. Therefore, to provide a fast immunogenic profile of these epitopes, we performed immunoinformatics analysis so that the rapid development of the vaccine might bring this disastrous situation to the end earlier. Highlights: The potential epitopes of coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) are identified.The docking complex of the construct vaccine and TLR5 is described.Peptide‐based vaccine developed and in silico validation is provided.Common epitopes of coronavirus (SARS‐CoV‐2) against B‐cells and T‐cells are listed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virus-like particles displaying major house dust mite allergen Der p 2 for prophylactic allergen immunotherapy Keywords: animal models; immunotherapy vaccines and mechanisms; prevention; vaccines EN animal models immunotherapy vaccines and mechanisms prevention vaccines 1232 1236 5 05/20/20 20200501 NES 200501 Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) with standardized allergen extracts has several drawbacks such as duration of administrations, adverse side effects, and fluctuating quality of allergen extracts.[1] Prophylactic AIT could represent an elegant strategy for primary prevention in high-risk children from atopic parents through the development of allergen-specific IgG capable to block any future allergen-IgE interaction.[2] Aiming at developing a safer, hypoallergenic, and more efficient prophylactic or therapeutic vaccine against house dust mite (HDM) allergy, we designed a virus-like particle (VLP) displaying multi-copies of the major HDM allergen Der p 2 using the SpyCatcher/SpyTag conjugation system.[3] Recombinant His SB 6 sb -rDer p 2-SpyTag and coat protein of Acinetobacter phage AP205 fused to SpyCatcher (SpyCatcher-VLP) were produced in I E coli i and purified by Ni SP 2+ sp affinity chromatography and density gradient ultracentrifugation, respectively (Figure A, lanes 1 and 2). Competitive ELISA and RBL-SX38 assays evidenced that VLP-rDer p 2-induced IgG antibodies were able to inhibit the binding of human-specific IgE to solid-phase rDer p 2 (Figure D) and to suppress the allergen-induced degranulation of preloaded RBL cells by up to 65% (Figure E). [Extracted from the article]

Introduction: Efforts are required at developing an effective vaccine that can inhibit malaria prevalence and transmission. Identifying the critical immunogenic antigens and understanding their interactions with host proteins forms a major focus of subunit vaccine development. Previously, our laboratory showed that SLTRiP conferred protection to the liver stage of Plasmodium growth in rodents. In the follow‐up of earlier research, we demonstrate that SLTRiP‐mediated protection is majorly concentrated in specific regions of protein. Method: To identify particular protective regions of protein, we synthesized multiple nonoverlapping fragments from SLTRiP protein. From this, we designed a panel of 8‐20mer synthetic peptides, which were predicted using T‐epitope‐based prediction algorithm. We utilized the IFN‐γ enzyme‐linked immunosorbent spot assay to identify immunodominant peptides. The latter were used to immunize mice, and these mice were challenged to assess protection. Results: The protective polypeptide fragment SLTRiP C3 and SLTRiP C4 were identified, by expressing and testing multiple fragments of PbSLTRiP protein. The immune responses generated by these fragments were compared to identify the immunodominant fragment. The T‐epitopes were predicted from SLTRiP protein using computer‐based algorithms. The in vitro immune responses generated by these peptides were compared with each other to identify the immunodominant T‐epitope. Immunization using these peptides showed significant reduction in parasite numbers during liver stage. Conclusion: Our findings show that the protective efficacy shown by SLTRiP is localized in particular protein fragments. The peptides designed from such regions showed protective efficacy equivalent to whole protein. The sequence conservation analysis with human Plasmodium species also showed that these peptides were conserved. In conclusion, these peptides or their equivalent from other Plasmodium species could impart protection against malaria in their respective hosts too. Our studies provide a basis for the inclusion of these peptides in clinical vaccine constructs against malaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brucellosis is a worldwide bacterial zoonosis caused by Brucella spp. No approved vaccine is available for human use against the disease. In this study, outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from a Brucella melitensis biovar 1 human isolate obtained in Iran were used to immunize BALB/c mice (n = 12) by 2 intramuscular injections with a 2‐week interval. Another group of 12 mice was used as non‐vaccinated controls. Two weeks after the last vaccination, six mice of each group were sacrificed, and proliferation and interferon gamma (IFNγ) production responses of their splenocytes were evaluated following in vitro stimulation with killed Brucella cells. The other mice were challenged with the virulent B. melitensis isolate. Two weeks later, mice were killed and spleens were cultured to determine the number of the challenge strain. The results showed proliferative response and IFNγ production of splenocytes from vaccinated mice (stimulation index: 2.18 ± 0.57, and 1519.35 ± 10.70 pg/mL, respectively) were significantly higher than those of control mice (stimulation index: 1.02 ± 0.02, and 210.01 ± 17.58 pg/mL, respectively). Numbers of the challenge strain in spleens of vaccinated mice were also significantly less than those in the controls with 1.6 units of protection. Our study revealed vaccination with OMVs of the B. melitensis isolate could induce specific immune responses and protection against infection in the mouse model suggesting their potential application for active immunization against brucellosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 3‐O‐desacyl‐4'‐monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) activates immunity through Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling. The Adjuvant System AS01 contains MPL and is used in the candidate malaria vaccine and the licensed zoster vaccine. Recent studies reported that AS01 adjuvant activity depends on a transient inflammation at the site of vaccination, but the role of stromal or structural cells in the adjuvant effect is unknown. We investigated this question in mouse models by assessing the role of TLR4 on hematopoietic versus resident structural cells during immunization with AS01‐adjuvanted vaccines. We first established that TLR4‐deficient animals had a reduced immune response to an AS01‐adjuvanted vaccine. Using bone marrow chimera, we consistently found that Tlr4 expression in radio‐sensitive cells, i.e., hematopoietic cells, was required for an optimal adjuvant effect on antibody and T‐cell responses. At day 1 after injection, the pro‐inflammatory reaction at the site of injection was strongly dependent on TLR4 signaling in hematopoietic cells. Similarly, activation of dendritic cells in muscle‐draining lymph nodes was strictly associated with the radio‐sensitive cells expressing Tlr4. Altogether, these data suggest that MPL‐mediated TLR4‐signaling in hematopoietic cells is critical in the mode of action of AS01. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Danish Pasteur Society was founded on October 25, 1922, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Louis Pasteur's birth. The society received financial support from individuals and industry leaders, including Professor Niels Bohr and companies like Carlsberg and De Danske Spritfabrikker. The society provided annual economic support to scientists in microbiology, immunology, and related fields, including grants for advanced courses and research. The centennial celebration took place on October 25, 2022, with a symposium and a collection of historical articles on Louis Pasteur and his legacy. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacterium that infects approximately 50% of the world's population and has been strongly associated with chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers, gastric mucosa-associated lymphoma, and gastric cancer. The elimination of H. pylori is currently considered one of the most effective strategies for the treatment of gastric-related diseases, so antibiotic therapy is the most commonly used regimen for the treatment of H. pylori infection. Although this therapy has some positive effects, antibiotic resistance has become another clinically prominent problem. Therefore, the development of a safe and efficient vaccine has become an important measure to prevent H. pylori infection., Methods: PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov were systematically searched from January 1980 to March 2023 with search terms-H. pylori vaccine, adjuvants, immunization, pathogenesis, and H. pylori eradication in the title and/or abstract of literature. A total of 5182 documents were obtained. Based on the principles of academic reliability, authority, nearly publicated, and excluded the similar documents, finally, 75 documents were selected, organized, and analyzed., Results: Most of the candidate antigens used as H. pylori vaccines in these literatures are whole-cell antigens and virulence antigens such as UreB, VacA, CagA, and HspA, and the main types of vaccines for H. pylori are whole bacteria vaccines, vector vaccines, subunit vaccines, nucleic acid vaccines, epitope vaccines, etc. Some vaccines have shown good immune protection in animal trials; however, few vaccines show good in clinical trials. The only H. pylori vaccine passed phase 3 clinical trial is a recombinant subunit vaccine using Urease subunit B (UreB) as the vaccine antigen, and it shows good prophylactic effects. Meanwhile, the adjuvant system for vaccines against this bacterium has been developed considerably. In addition to the traditional mucosal adjuvants such as cholera toxin (CT) and E. coli heat labile enterotoxin (LT), there are also promising safer and more effective mucosal adjuvants. All these advances made safe and effective H. pylori vaccines come into service as early as possible., Conclusions: This review briefly summarized the advances of H. pylori vaccines from two aspects, candidates of antigens and adjuvants, to provide references for the development of vaccine against this bacterium. We also present our prospects of exosomal vaccines in H. pylori vaccine research, in the hope of inspiring future researchers., (© 2023 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) in beef cattle has major welfare and production implications. Effective vaccination against IBK would also reduce antibiotic use in beef production. Objective/Hypothesis: To evaluate the efficacy of a conditionally licensed commercial IBK vaccine containing Moraxella bovoculi bacterin. Primary working hypothesis was that animals vaccinated with 2 doses of the commercial M. bovoculi vaccine would have a lower risk of disease. Animals: Spring born calves at a university cow‐calf herd. After excluding animals with ocular lesions, calves eligible for prevention assessment in 2017 and 2018 were 163 (81 vaccinated, 82 unvaccinated) and 207 (105 vaccinated, 102 unvaccinated). One hundred sixty two and two hundred and six calves completed the follow‐up period in 2017 and 2018, respectively. Methods: A randomized controlled trial. The trial design was a 2‐arm parallel trial with a 1:1 allocation ratio. Results: In both years, calves receiving the vaccine had more IBK. This effect was small. The pooled risk ratio was 1.30 (95% confidence interval 0.84–2.01). The pooled unadjusted difference in mean weight (kg) at weaning was −0.88 (95% confidence interval—7.2‐5.43). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: We were unable to document that the M. bovoculi bacterin vaccine had a protective effect for the incidence of IBK in our single herd in a 2‐year study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality in both adults and children. Australia is the only country that has produced and registered a Q fever vaccine for human use, but this vaccine is licenced only for people aged over 15 years as data and experience in children are limited. This review describes the experience of Q fever vaccination of known paediatric cases in Australia to date.Methods: Patients aged younger than 15 years who received the Q fever vaccination had data abstracted from medical records after consent was obtained from the relevant guardians. Data on risk factors for Q fever, skin testing procedure, dose of vaccination, adverse effects and follow-up assessment were obtained.Results: Twelve children were identified as having received the Q fever vaccination. Vaccination was feasible, with empirical weight-based dose adjustment performed for younger children. There were no significant adverse effects.Conclusions: Q fever vaccine may be safe in children and should be considered in children who are at significant risk of Q fever infection. Safe vaccine protocols with proven efficacy will allow children of all ages to be protected. Prospective studies of vaccination in children are indicated. Expanding available Q fever registries to include children would allow outcomes to be systematically followed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motivated by the lack of noncytotoxic carriers in the current vaccine, we pursued the possibility of using a zwitterionic surfactant as a carrier to improve their delivery efficiency with antigen for a nanoemulsion‐based vaccine. We identified that a nanoemulsion formulation that consists of a specific zwitterionic surfactant can effectively mediate cellular uptake of antigen despite not having cytotoxicity as compared to a nanoemulsion that consists of a cationic surfactant. We report here the first study of a zwitterionic surfactant that consists of a positive charge in the outer layer of the polar head group and a hydrophobic tail is a promising approach for enhancing the carrier's efficacy with no noticeable toxicity under experimental condition. However, zwitterionic surfactant that has positive charge in the outer layer with additional hydrophobicity due to the presence of aromatic ring had minimal cellular uptake and transfection efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Salmonellosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal calves, often occurring before preventative vaccines can be administered. Hypothesis/Objective: To evaluate the protective effect on calves of colostrum from cows vaccinated with a commercially available Salmonella Newport bacterin against a Salmonella Typhimurium challenge. Animals: Twenty Holstein bull calves from a university dairy farm. Methods: Nonrandomized placebo‐controlled trial in which colostrum was harvested from 30 cows that received 2 doses of either Salmonella bacterin or saline before calving. Colostrum collected from each group was pooled and fed to 2 groups of 10 calves at birth. At approximately 2 weeks of age, calves were challenged with Salmonella Typhimurium. Clinical, hematologic, microbiological, and postmortem findings were compared between the 2 groups. Results: No differences in mortality, clinical findings, hematology results, blood and fecal cultures, or necropsy findings between the 2 groups were observed. Vaccinated cows had higher colostral titers, and calves fed this colostrum had higher serum titers (mean difference, 0.429; mean [SE], 0.852 [0.02] for vaccinated versus 0.423 [0.02] for control calves). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Transfer of colostral immunoglobulins from Salmonella enterica serotype Newport bacterin to neonatal calves was not sufficient to decrease mortality, clinical signs, sepsis, intestinal damage, or fecal shedding when exposed to a highly pathogenic Salmonella isolate. A large‐scale randomized controlled clinical trial is needed to evaluate the efficacy of this bacterin when administered in the dry period for prevention of salmonellosis in neonatal calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lobar pneumonia is an occupational disease of welders. This is the first report of global deployment of a pneumococcal vaccination program for welders within a multi‐national corporation. Methods: Global webinars were conducted to introduce the program. Communication packages translated into all location languages were deployed. All employee welders who had not previously been vaccinated were offered a free single dose of pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) by on‐site location medical centers during normal working hours. Numbers of vaccinated welders were reported by each location each month. Results: Twelve months after starting the program, 241 of 767 welders have been vaccinated (31%) across six countries. Conclusions: Global deployment of pneumococcal vaccination for welders can be successfully undertaken by a multi‐national corporation. Adoption of this practice by corporations could reduce the incidence and mortality of pneumonia among welders globally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Urease subunit B (UreB), a conserved and key virulence factor of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), can induce the host CD4 + T cell immune responses to provide protection, but less is known regarding CD8 + T cell responses. The characteristics of H. pylori-specific CD8 + T cell responses and the mechanism underlying antigen processing and presentation pathways remain unclear. This study was focus on protective antigen recombinant UreB (rUreb) to detect specific CD8 + T cell responses in vitro and elucidate the mechanism of UreB antigen processing and presentation., Methods: The peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) collected from H. pylori-infected individuals were stimulated with rUreB in vitro to detect specific CD8 + T cell responses after co-culture with rUreB-pulsed autologous hMDCs. Through blocking assay, we investigated the potential pathway of UreB antigen processing and presentation via the cytosolic pathway or vacuolar pathway. The cytokines production of UreB specific CD8 + T cell were evaluated as well., Results: We demonstrated UreB can induce specific CD8 + T cell immune responses in H. pylori infected individuals. Importantly, we characterized that UreB were mainly processed by proteasome instead of lysosomal proteases and presented through cytosolic pathway of cross-presentation, which requires endoplasmic reticulum-Golgi transport and newly synthesized MHC-I molecules, to induce functional-specific CD8 + T cell (IFN-γ + TNF-α + Grz A+ Grz B+) responses., Conclusions: These results suggest that H. pylori UreB induces specific CD8 + T cell responses through cytosolic pathway of cross-presentation in infected individuals., (© 2023 The Authors. Helicobacter published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)