Enhanced effect of modified Zika virus E antigen on the immunogenicity of DNA vaccine

초록

It has been reported worldwide that the Zika virus (ZIKV) could be transmitted through placentas and sexual contact. ZIKV can also cause Guillain-Barre syndrome, microcephaly and neurological abnormalities. However, there are no approved vaccines available. We constructed six DNA vaccine candidates and tested the immunogenicity. Tandem repeated envelope domain III (ED III x 3) induced highly total IgG and neutralization antibody, as well as CD8(+) T cell responses. Also, stem region-removed envelope (E Delta STEM) elicited a robust production of IFN-gamma in mice. To examine in vivo protection, we used mice treated with an IFNAR1 blocking antibody before and after the challenge. Vaccination with the two candidates led to a decline in the level of viral RNAs in organs. Moreover, the sera from the vaccinated mice did not enhance the infection of Dengue virus in K562 cells. These findings suggest the potential for the development of a novel ZIKV DNA vaccine.

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