Sm-p80-based DNA vaccine formulation induces potent protective immunity against Schistosoma mansoni

Authors: AHMAD, G.; TORBEN, W.; ZHANG, W.; WYATT, M.; SIDDIQUI, A. A.

Source: Parasite Immunology, Volume 31, Number 3, March 2009 , pp. 156-161(6)

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Abstract:

SUMMARY

No effective vaccine exists for the human parasitic disease, schistosomiasis. We have targeted a functionally important antigen, Sm-p80 as a vaccine candidate because of its consistent immunogenicity, protective potential and important role in the immune evasion process. In this study we report that a Sm-p80-based DNA vaccine formulation confers 59% reduction in worm burden in mice. Animals immunized with Sm-p80-pcDNA3 exhibited a decrease in egg production by 84%. Sm-p80 DNA elicited strong immune responses that include IgG2A and IgG2B antibody isotypes in vaccinated animals. Splenocytes proliferated in response to Sm-p80 produced appreciably more Th1 response enhancing cytokines (IL-2, IFN-γ) than Th2 response enhancing cytokines (IL-4, IL-10). These data reinforce the potential of Sm-p80 as an excellent vaccine candidate for schistosomiasis.

Keywords: calpain; DNA vaccination; schistosomiasis; Schistosoma; Sm-p80

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-3024.2008.01091.x

Affiliations: 1: Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock, Texas, USA

Publication date: 2009-03-01