Journal Description
Vaccines
Vaccines
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. The American Society for Virology (ASV) is affiliated with Vaccines and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Immunology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Pharmacology (medical))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
7.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
7.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Knowledge and Attitudes about Contraindications and Precautions to Vaccination among Healthcare Professionals Working in Vaccination Clinics in Ningbo, China: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 632; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060632 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Healthcare professionals’ misjudgment of contraindications to vaccination can lead to unnecessary delays or missed vaccinations. It is essential to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals towards this issue. Methods: A two-phase cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare professionals in vaccination
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Background: Healthcare professionals’ misjudgment of contraindications to vaccination can lead to unnecessary delays or missed vaccinations. It is essential to evaluate the knowledge and attitudes of healthcare professionals towards this issue. Methods: A two-phase cross-sectional study was conducted among healthcare professionals in vaccination clinics in Ningbo in 2022. The study data were collected using questionnaires evaluating the knowledge and attitudes of contraindications and precautions to vaccination. Knowledge scores were calculated and a cutoff of 75 was defined for adequate knowledge scores. Results: A total of 761 participants completed the questionnaire on attitudes. The majority of participants (86.20%) considered screening for vaccination contraindications to be the most important aspect of the vaccination administration process. A higher level of work stress was observed among full-time personnel engaged in this work. A total of 301 participants completed the questionnaire on relevant knowledge and practical experience. The median (IQR) total score was 75.00 (21.88). The lowest median score was observed for questions pertaining to disease diagnosis and classification (median: 40.00; IQR: 40.00). Regarding knowledge about vaccination contraindications, the scores for questions regarding national guidelines or vaccine package inserts (median: 85.71; IQR: 14.29) and guidelines from the WHO or ACIP (median: 100.00; IQR: 0.00) were higher than those derived from expert consensuses or literature findings (median: 71.43; IQR: 28.57) (p < 0.001). Higher scores were observed in the age group of 50–59 years, which included those who had received training twice or more times and those with relevant work experience. Conclusions: The knowledge of healthcare professionals working in vaccination clinics related to contraindications and precautions to vaccination is not sufficient, particularly regarding disease diagnosis and classification. Knowledge enhancement through repetitive skill training is required.
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(This article belongs to the Section Vaccination Optimization)
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Open AccessArticle
Risk of Post-COVID-19 Uveitis and Risk Modification by Vaccination: A Nationwide Retrospective Cohort Study
by
Jiyeong Kim and Seong Joon Ahn
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060631 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the risk of uveitis, one of the most common ocular manifestations of COVID-19, in individuals with a history of uveitis and COVID-19 infection while discriminating the effects of COVID-19 infection and vaccinations. We analyzed nationwide data from 235,228
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This study aimed to evaluate the risk of uveitis, one of the most common ocular manifestations of COVID-19, in individuals with a history of uveitis and COVID-19 infection while discriminating the effects of COVID-19 infection and vaccinations. We analyzed nationwide data from 235,228 individuals with a history of uveitis prior to COVID-19 infection and evaluated incidences and hazard ratios (HRs) of post-COVID-19 uveitis for different post-infection periods, including early- (within 30 days) and delayed-onset ones. The cumulative incidences of post-infection uveitis at 3, 6, and 12 months were calculated as 8.5%, 11.8%, and 14.0%, respectively. The HR of post-COVID-19 uveitis was 1.21 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–1.37) and was particularly higher in the early-onset period (1.42, 95% CI: 1.24–1.61). Vaccinated individuals showed a modestly elevated risk of uveitis relative to pre-infection, while unvaccinated ones exhibited substantially higher risks in the early-onset period: the HR of post-infection uveitis before vaccination was 3.61 (95% CI: 1.35-9.66), whereas after vaccination, it was 1.21 (95% CI: 1.05–1.39). COVID-19 infection was associated with a higher risk of uveitis, which was mitigated by vaccination. Vigilance in the monitoring of uveitis is warranted for recently COVID-19-infected individuals with a history of uveitis, particularly unvaccinated individuals.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology, Vaccinology and Surveillance of COVID-19)
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Open AccessReview
Current Status of Poultry Recombinant Virus Vector Vaccine Development
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Haoran Wang, Jiaxin Tian, Jing Zhao, Ye Zhao, Huiming Yang and Guozhong Zhang
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060630 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
Inactivated and live attenuated vaccines are the mainstays of preventing viral poultry diseases. However, the development of recombinant DNA technology in recent years has enabled the generation of recombinant virus vector vaccines, which have the advantages of preventing multiple diseases simultaneously and simplifying
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Inactivated and live attenuated vaccines are the mainstays of preventing viral poultry diseases. However, the development of recombinant DNA technology in recent years has enabled the generation of recombinant virus vector vaccines, which have the advantages of preventing multiple diseases simultaneously and simplifying the vaccination schedule. More importantly, some can induce a protective immune response in the presence of maternal antibodies and offer long-term immune protection. These advantages compensate for the shortcomings of traditional vaccines. This review describes the construction and characterization of primarily poultry vaccine vectors, including fowl poxvirus (FPV), fowl adenovirus (FAdV), Newcastle disease virus (NDV), Marek’s disease virus (MDV), and herpesvirus of turkey (HVT). In addition, the pathogens targeted and the immunoprotective effect of different poultry recombinant virus vector vaccines are also presented. Finally, this review discusses the challenges in developing vector vaccines and proposes strategies for improving immune efficacy.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Viral Vectors for Vaccine Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Ferritin Nanoparticle Delivery of the E2 Protein of Classical Swine Fever Virus Completely Protects Pigs from Lethal Challenge
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Dailang Zhong, Zhanhao Lu, Yu Xia, Hongxia Wu, Xinyu Zhang, Mingzhi Li, Xin Song, Yanjin Wang, Assad Moon, Hua-Ji Qiu, Yongfeng Li and Yuan Sun
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 629; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060629 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Classical swine fever (CSF), caused by the classical swine fever virus (CSFV), results in significant economic losses to the swine industry in many countries. Vaccination represents the primary strategy to control CSF and the CSFV E2 protein is known as the major protective
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Classical swine fever (CSF), caused by the classical swine fever virus (CSFV), results in significant economic losses to the swine industry in many countries. Vaccination represents the primary strategy to control CSF and the CSFV E2 protein is known as the major protective antigen. However, the E2 protein expressed or presented by different systems elicits distinct immune responses. In this study, we established a stable CHO cell line to express the E2 protein and delivered it using self-assembled ferritin nanoparticles (NPs). Subsequently, we compared the adaptive immune responses induced by the E2-ferritin NPs and the monomeric E2 protein produced by the CHO cells or a baculovirus expression system. The results revealed that the NP-delivered E2 protein elicited higher titers of neutralizing antibodies than did the monomeric E2 protein in pigs. Importantly, only the NP-delivered E2 protein significantly induced CSFV-specific IFN-γ-secreting cells. Furthermore, all the pigs inoculated with the E2-ferritin NPs were completely protected from a lethal CSFV challenge infection. These findings demonstrate the ability of the E2-ferritin NPs to protect pigs against the lethal CSFV challenge by eliciting robust humoral and cellular immune responses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Porcine Virus and Vaccines)
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Open AccessArticle
COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake and Effectiveness by Time since Vaccination in the Western Cape Province, South Africa: An Observational Cohort Study during 2020–2022
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Reshma Kassanjee, Mary-Ann Davies, Alexa Heekes, Hassan Mahomed, Anthony J. Hawkridge, Erna Morden, Theuns Jacobs, Cheryl Cohen, Harry Moultrie, Richard J. Lessells, Nicolette Van Der Walt, Juanita O. Arendse, Nicole Wolter, Sibongile Walaza, Waasila Jassat, Anne von Gottberg, Patrick L. Hannan, Daniel R. Feikin, Keith Cloete and Andrew Boulle
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 628; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060628 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
There are few data on the real-world effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and boosting in Africa, which experienced widespread SARS-CoV-2 infection before vaccine availability. We assessed the association between vaccination and severe COVID-19 in the Western Cape, South Africa, in an observational cohort study
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There are few data on the real-world effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccines and boosting in Africa, which experienced widespread SARS-CoV-2 infection before vaccine availability. We assessed the association between vaccination and severe COVID-19 in the Western Cape, South Africa, in an observational cohort study of >2 million adults during 2020–2022. We described SARS-CoV-2 testing, COVID-19 outcomes, and vaccine uptake over time. We used multivariable cox models to estimate the association of BNT162b2 and Ad26.COV2.S vaccination with COVID-19-related hospitalization and death, adjusting for demographic characteristics, underlying health conditions, socioeconomic status proxies, and healthcare utilization. We found that by the end of 2022, 41% of surviving adults had completed vaccination and 8% had received a booster dose. Recent vaccination was associated with notable reductions in severe COVID-19 during periods dominated by Delta, and Omicron BA.1/2 and BA.4/5 (sub)lineages. During the latest Omicron BA.4/5 wave, within 3 months of vaccination or boosting, BNT162b2 and Ad26.COV2.S were each 84% effective against death (95% CIs: 57–94 and 49–95, respectively). However, distinct reductions of effectiveness occurred at longer times post completing or boosting vaccination. Results highlight the importance of continued emphasis on COVID-19 vaccination and boosting for those at high risk of severe COVID-19, even in settings with widespread infection-induced immunity.
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(This article belongs to the Section COVID-19 Vaccines and Vaccination)
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Open AccessArticle
Factors Influencing COVID-19 Vaccine Confidence and Uptake in Australian Adults
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Charles Travers Williams, Bandana Saini, Syed Tabish R. Zaidi, Christina Kali, Grace Moujalli and Ronald Castelino
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 627; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060627 - 5 Jun 2024
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In January 2021, Australia initiated a national COVID-19 vaccine rollout strategy but faced setbacks, leading to negative press and media controversy, which may have diminished vaccine confidence. This study aimed to assess the factors influencing vaccine confidence in Australian adults (≥18 years of
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In January 2021, Australia initiated a national COVID-19 vaccine rollout strategy but faced setbacks, leading to negative press and media controversy, which may have diminished vaccine confidence. This study aimed to assess the factors influencing vaccine confidence in Australian adults (≥18 years of age) following the administration of a COVID-19 vaccine. Conducted at Blacktown Hospital, Sydney, a cross-sectional survey with 1053 respondents gauged vaccine confidence and influencing factors. The results showed overall high confidence (mean score 33/40). Trusted sources included the Australian Department of Health (77.8%), NSW Health (76.7%), and general practitioners (53.7%), while social media was distrusted (5.9%). The motivations for vaccination varied: university-educated individuals prioritised personal health (X2 = 17.81; p < 0.001), while religious and/or older respondents (≥50 years of age) emphasised community (X2 = 11.69; p < 0.001) and family protection (X2 = 17.314; p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression revealed use of the Australian Department of Health website as a trusted source of COVID-19 information as the strongest predictor of high confidence (>30; OR 1.43; p = 0.041), while exposure to fake news decreased confidence (OR 0.71; p = 0.025). The study underscores the importance of reliable health information sources in bolstering vaccine confidence and highlights the detrimental effects of misinformation. Promoting awareness of trustworthy health channels is crucial to combat vaccine hesitancy in Australia.
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Open AccessArticle
The Human Genetic Differences in the Outcomes of mRNA Vaccination against COVID-19: A Prospective Cohort Study
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Ha-Eun Ryu, Jihyun Yoon, Ja-Eun Choi, Seok-Jae Heo, Kyung-Won Hong and Dong-Hyuk Jung
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 626; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060626 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to explore how genetic variations in individuals impact neutralization activity post-mRNA vaccination, recognizing the critical role vaccination plays in curbing COVID-19 spread and the necessity of ensuring vaccine efficacy amidst genetic diversity. Methods: In a 4-week clinical pilot study,
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Background: This study aimed to explore how genetic variations in individuals impact neutralization activity post-mRNA vaccination, recognizing the critical role vaccination plays in curbing COVID-19 spread and the necessity of ensuring vaccine efficacy amidst genetic diversity. Methods: In a 4-week clinical pilot study, 534 healthy subjects received their first COVID vaccine dose, followed by the second dose. Antibody levels were evaluated thrice. From this pool, 120 participants were selected and divided into high- and low-antibody groups based on their levels. Genomic DNA was isolated from peripheral blood mononuclear cells for pilot genome-wide association studies (GWAS) conducted on a single platform. Real-time PCR was used to confirm differences in gene expression identified via GWAS analysis. Results: Three SNPs exceeded the level of p < 1.0 × 10−3. The rs7795433 SNP of the HDAC9 gene (7q21.1) showed the strongest association with COVID-19 vaccination under the additive model (OR = 5.63; p = 3 × 10−5). In the PCR experiments, the AA genotype group showed that the gene expression level of HDAC9 was likely to be decreased in the low-antibody-formation group at the time of vaccination. Conclusion: We found that AA genotype holders (rs7795433 SNP of the HDAC9 gene) have a high probability of having a higher antibody count when vaccinated, and GG type holders have a high probability of the opposite. These findings show that the genetic characteristics of vaccinated people may affect antibody production after COVID vaccination.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Population Immunity and Persistence to SARS-CoV-2 Induced by Infection and Vaccination, Protection against New Infections and Implication for Further Vaccination)
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Open AccessReview
Of Money and Men: A Scoping Review to Map Gender Barriers to Immunization Coverage in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
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Anna Kalbarczyk, Natasha Brownlee and Elizabeth Katz
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 625; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060625 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Among the multiple factors impeding equitable childhood immunization coverage in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), gender barriers stand out as perhaps the most universal. Despite increasing recognition of the importance of gender considerations in immunization programming, there has not yet been a systematic
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Among the multiple factors impeding equitable childhood immunization coverage in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), gender barriers stand out as perhaps the most universal. Despite increasing recognition of the importance of gender considerations in immunization programming, there has not yet been a systematic assessment of the evidence on gender barriers to immunization. We conducted a scoping review to fill that gap, identifying 92 articles that described gender barriers to immunization. Studies documented a range of gender influencers across 43 countries in Africa and South Asia. The barrier to immunization coverage most frequently cited in the literature is women’s lack of autonomous decision-making. Access to immunization is significantly impacted by women’s time poverty; direct costs are also a barrier, particularly when female caregivers rely on family members to cover costs. Challenges with clinic readiness compound female caregiver’s time constraints. Some of the most important gender barriers lie outside of the usual purview of immunization programming but other barriers can be addressed with adaptations to vaccination programming. We can only know how important these barriers are with more research that measures the impact of programming on gender barriers to immunization coverage.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inequality in Immunization 2024)
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Exploring the Impact of mRNA Modifications on Translation Efficiency and Immune Tolerance to Self-Antigens
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Mouldy Sioud, Asta Juzeniene and Stein Sæbøe-Larssen
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 624; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060624 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Therapeutic modified mRNAs are being developed for a broad range of human diseases. However, the impact of potential miscoding of modified mRNAs on self-tolerance remains unknown. Additionally, more studies are needed to explore the effects of nucleoside alkylation on translation. While all six
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Therapeutic modified mRNAs are being developed for a broad range of human diseases. However, the impact of potential miscoding of modified mRNAs on self-tolerance remains unknown. Additionally, more studies are needed to explore the effects of nucleoside alkylation on translation. While all six tested modifications are tolerated as substrates by T7 RNA polymerase and inhibited mRNA immunogenicity, the translation efficiency varied significantly depending on the type of modification. In contrast to methylation, ethylation at the N1 position of pseudouridine (Ψ) hindered translation, suggesting that the C5-C1’ glycosidic bond alone is not a critical element for high translation. Inhibition of mRNA translation was also observed with 5-methoxyuridine modification. However, this inhibition was partially alleviated through the optimization of mRNA coding sequences. BALB/c mice immunized with syngeneic ψ-modified mRNA encoding for Wilms’ tumor antigen-1 (WT1) developed a low but significant level of anti-WT1 IgG antibodies compared to those immunized with either unmodified or N1-methyl ψ-modified mRNA. Overall, the data indicate that adding a simple ethyl group (-CH2CH3) at the N1 position of ψ has a major negative effect on translation despite its reduced immunogenicity. Additionally, mRNA containing Ψ may alter translation fidelity at certain codons, which could lead to a breakdown of immune tolerance to self-antigens. This concern should be taken into account during gene replacement therapies, although it could benefit mRNA-based vaccines by generating a diverse repertoire of antigens.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue mRNA-Based Vaccine Development)
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Open AccessBrief Report
Enhanced Timeliness and Co-Administration of Meningitis B Vaccination in Children: Impact of Funding in Valencian Community, Spain
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Juan Juaneda, Pablo Estrella-Porter, Carolina Blanco-Calvo, Alejandro Orrico-Sánchez, José Antonio Lluch-Rodrigo and Eliseo Pastor-Villalba
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060623 - 5 Jun 2024
Abstract
Public funding of vaccines may enhance vaccination rates, co-administration, and timeliness. The impacts of including the serogroup B meningococcus vaccine (MenB) into the national immunisation schedule on vaccination rates, co-administration rates, and timeliness were assessed using a population-based pre-funding (2022) and post-funding (2023)
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Public funding of vaccines may enhance vaccination rates, co-administration, and timeliness. The impacts of including the serogroup B meningococcus vaccine (MenB) into the national immunisation schedule on vaccination rates, co-administration rates, and timeliness were assessed using a population-based pre-funding (2022) and post-funding (2023) study design. MenB vaccination rates improved after funding and were in line with previously funded vaccines. Co-administration rates also increased significantly. Timely administration increased, protecting children at an early age. Public funding has a positive impact on vaccine accessibility and early protection. Consistent population characteristics highlight the role of funding.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccines and Vaccinations in the Pandemic Period)
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Open AccessArticle
Enhanced Glycosylation Caused by Overexpression of Rv1002c in a Recombinant BCG Promotes Immune Response and Protects against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection
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Shufeng Weng, Qingchun Li, Tianran Zhang, Taiyue Lin, Yumo He, Guang Yang, Honghai Wang and Ying Xu
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 622; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060622 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health threat despite its virtual elimination in developed countries. Issues such as drug accessibility, emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, and limitations of the current BCG vaccine highlight the urgent need for more effective TB control measures. This study
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Tuberculosis (TB) is a major global health threat despite its virtual elimination in developed countries. Issues such as drug accessibility, emergence of multidrug-resistant strains, and limitations of the current BCG vaccine highlight the urgent need for more effective TB control measures. This study constructed BCG strains overexpressing Rv1002c and found that the rBCG-Rv1002c strain secreted more glycosylated proteins, significantly enhancing macrophage activation and immune protection against Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb). These results indicate that Rv1002c overexpression promotes elevated levels of O-glycosylation in BCG bacteriophages, enhancing their phagocytic and antigenic presentation functions. Moreover, rBCG-Rv1002c significantly upregulated immune regulatory molecules on the macrophage surface, activated the NF-κB pathway, and facilitated the release of large amounts of NO and H2O2, thereby enhancing bacterial control. In mice, rBCG-Rv1002c immunization induced greater innate and adaptive immune responses, including increased production of multifunctional and long-term memory T cells. Furthermore, rBCG-Rv1002c-immunized mice exhibited reduced lung bacterial load and histological damage upon M. tb infection. This result shows that it has the potential to be an excellent candidate for a preventive vaccine against TB.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tuberculosis Vaccine Research: Inducing Immune Memory and Regulation)
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Open AccessArticle
Protective Efficacy of the Epitope-Conjugated Antigen N-Tc52/TSkb20 in Mitigating Trypanosoma cruzi Infection through CD8+ T-Cells and IFNγ Responses
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María Elisa Vázquez, Brenda A. Zabala, Andrea C. Mesías, Lucia Biscari, Cintia D. Kaufman, Andrés Alloatti, Francesco Siano, Gianluca Picariello, Natalia S. Corbalán, Bladimiro A. Lenis, Marta A. Toscano, Cecilia M. Parodi, Cecilia M. Pérez Brandán and Leonardo Acuña
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060621 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a major public health challenge affecting millions in Latin America and worldwide. Although significant progress has been made in vector control, no vaccine exists to prevent infection or mitigate disease pathogenesis. We developed
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Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, remains a major public health challenge affecting millions in Latin America and worldwide. Although significant progress has been made in vector control, no vaccine exists to prevent infection or mitigate disease pathogenesis. We developed a rationally designed chimeric protein vaccine, N-Tc52/TSkb20, incorporating immunodominant epitopes from two T. cruzi antigens, the amino-terminal portion of Tc52 and the TSkb20 epitope derived from trans-sialidase. The objectives of this study were to construct and characterize the antigen and evaluate its protective potential in an immunoprophylactic murine model of T. cruzi infection. The N-Tc52/TSkb20 protein was recombinantly expressed in E. coli and its identity was confirmed using mass spectrometry and Western blotting. Immunization with the chimeric protein significantly controlled parasitemia and reduced the heart, colon, and skeletal muscle parasite burdens compared to non-vaccinated mice. Protection was superior to vaccination with the individual parental antigen components. Mechanistically, the vaccine induced potent CD8+ T-cell and IFNγ responses against the incorporated epitopes and a protective IgG antibody profile. A relatively low IL-10 response favored early parasite control. These results validate the promising multi-epitope approach and support the continued development of this type of rational vaccine design strategy against Chagas disease.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Parasitic Infections: Therapy for Host Immunity and Vaccination)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring the Potentiality of a Plant Platform for Monoclonal Antibody Production in Veterinary Medicine
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Bertrand Morel, Claude Favrot, Lucie Mirande, Clemens Grünwald-Gruber, Virginie Stordeur, Louis Philippe Vezina, Loïc Faye and Véronique Gomord
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060620 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is an allergic, inflammatory, and pruritic skin disease associated with the production of IgE antibodies against environmental allergens and mainly house dust mite allergens. This complex dermatological pathology involves Interleukin 31 (IL-31) as a central itch mediator. One of
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Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is an allergic, inflammatory, and pruritic skin disease associated with the production of IgE antibodies against environmental allergens and mainly house dust mite allergens. This complex dermatological pathology involves Interleukin 31 (IL-31) as a central itch mediator. One of the most effective CAD treatments is a caninized monoclonal antibody (mAb) called Lokivetmab. It is produced in CHO cells and targets specifically canine IL-31 (cIL-31) and blocks its cellular messaging. This treatment has undoubtedly contributed to a breakthrough in dermatitis-related pruritus. However, its production in mammalian cells requires time-consuming procedures, high production costs, and investment. Plants are considered an emerging protein production platform for recombinant biopharmaceuticals due to their cost-effectiveness and rapidity for production. Here, we use transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana plants to produce recombinant canine Interleukin 31 (cIL-31) and an anti-IL-31 monoclonal antibody (M1). First, we describe the production and characterization of M1 and then its activity on an IL-31-induced pruritic model in dogs compared to its commercial homolog. Dogs treated with the plant-made M1 mAb have shown similar improvements to Lokivetmab-treated ones after different challenges using canine IL-31. Furthermore, M1 injections were not associated with any side effects. These results demonstrate the safety and efficacy of this plant-made Lokivetmab biosimilar to control dogs’ pruritus in a well-established model. Finally, this study shows that the plant-production platform can be utilized to produce rapidly functional mAbs and bring hope to the immunotherapy field of veterinary medicine.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Produced Vaccines, Therapeutics and Phytochemicals: Recent Developments, Challenges and Perspectives)
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Open AccessReview
Porphyromonas gingivalis Vaccine: Antigens and Mucosal Adjuvants
by
Shuo Wang, Tong Yan, Bingtao Zhang, Yixiang Chen and Zhitao Li
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 619; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060619 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium found in dental plaque biofilm within periodontal pockets, is the primary pathogenic microorganism responsible for chronic periodontitis. Infection by Pg significantly impacts the development and progression of various diseases, underscoring the importance of eliminating this bacterium
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Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg), a Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium found in dental plaque biofilm within periodontal pockets, is the primary pathogenic microorganism responsible for chronic periodontitis. Infection by Pg significantly impacts the development and progression of various diseases, underscoring the importance of eliminating this bacterium for effective clinical treatment. While antibiotics are commonly used to combat Pg, the rise of antibiotic resistance poses a challenge to complete eradication. Thus, the prevention of Pg infection is paramount. Research suggests that surface antigens of Pg, such as fimbriae, outer membrane proteins, and gingipains, can potentially be utilized as vaccine antigens to trigger protective immune responses. This article overviews these antigens, discusses advancements in mucosal adjuvants (including immunostimulant adjuvants and vaccine-delivery adjuvants), and their application in Pg vaccine development. Furthermore, the review examines the advantages and disadvantages of different immune pathways and common routes of Pg vaccine immunization. By summarizing the current landscape of Pg vaccines, addressing existing challenges, and highlighting the potential of mucosal vaccines, this review offers new insights for the advancement and clinical implementation of Pg vaccines.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Human Pathogen Control—a 21st Century Challenge 2.0)
Open AccessArticle
Vaccination with a Protective Ipa Protein-Containing Nanoemulsion Differentially Alters the Transcriptomic Profiles of Young and Elderly Mice following Shigella Infection
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Ti Lu, Murugesan Raju, Debaki R. Howlader, Zackary K. Dietz, Sean K. Whittier, David J. Varisco, Robert K. Ernst, Lyndon M. Coghill, William D. Picking and Wendy L. Picking
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 618; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060618 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Shigella spp. are responsible for bacillary dysentery or shigellosis transmitted via the fecal–oral route, causing significant morbidity and mortality, especially among vulnerable populations. There are currently no licensed Shigella vaccines. Shigella spp. use a type III secretion system (T3SS) to invade host cells.
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Shigella spp. are responsible for bacillary dysentery or shigellosis transmitted via the fecal–oral route, causing significant morbidity and mortality, especially among vulnerable populations. There are currently no licensed Shigella vaccines. Shigella spp. use a type III secretion system (T3SS) to invade host cells. We have shown that L-DBF, a recombinant fusion of the T3SS needle tip (IpaD) and translocator (IpaB) proteins with the LTA1 subunit of enterotoxigenic E. coli labile toxin, is broadly protective against Shigella spp. challenge in a mouse lethal pulmonary model. Here, we assessed the effect of LDBF, formulated with a unique TLR4 agonist called BECC470 in an oil-in-water emulsion (ME), on the murine immune response in a high-risk population (young and elderly) in response to Shigella challenge. Dual RNA Sequencing captured the transcriptome during Shigella infection in vaccinated and unvaccinated mice. Both age groups were protected by the L-DBF formulation, while younger vaccinated mice exhibited more adaptive immune response gene patterns. This preliminary study provides a step toward identifying the gene expression patterns and regulatory pathways responsible for a protective immune response against Shigella. Furthermore, this study provides a measure of the challenges that need to be addressed when immunizing an aging population.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vaccines against Infectious Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Zero-Dose Childhood Vaccination Status in Rural Democratic Republic of Congo: Quantifying the Relative Impact of Geographic Accessibility and Attitudes toward Vaccination
by
Branly Kilola Mbunga, Patrick Y. Liu, Freddy Bangelesa, Eric Mafuta, Nkamba Mukadi Dalau, Landry Egbende, Nicole A. Hoff, Jean Bosco Kasonga, Aimée Lulebo, Deogratias Manirakiza, Adèle Mudipanu, Nono Mvuama, Paul Ouma, Kerry Wong, Paul Lusamba and Roy Burstein
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 617; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060617 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Despite efforts to increase childhood vaccination coverage in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), approximately 20% of infants have not started their routine immunization schedule (zero-dose). The present study aims to evaluate the relative influence of geospatial access to health facilities and
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Despite efforts to increase childhood vaccination coverage in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), approximately 20% of infants have not started their routine immunization schedule (zero-dose). The present study aims to evaluate the relative influence of geospatial access to health facilities and caregiver perceptions of vaccines on the vaccination status of children in rural DRC. Pooled data from two consecutive nationwide immunization surveys conducted in 2022 and 2023 were used. Geographic accessibility was assessed based on travel time from households to their nearest health facility using the AccessMod 5 model. Caregiver attitudes to vaccination were assessed using the survey question “How good do you think vaccines are for your child?” We used logistic regression to assess the relationship between geographic accessibility, caregiver attitudes toward vaccination, and their child’s vaccination status. Geographic accessibility to health facilities was high in rural DRC, with 88% of the population living within an hour’s walk to a health facility. Responding that vaccines are “Bad, Very Bad, or Don’t Know” relative to “Very Good” for children was associated with a many-fold increased odds of a zero-dose status (ORs 69.3 [95%CI: 63.4–75.8]) compared to the odds for those living 60+ min from a health facility, relative to <5 min (1.3 [95%CI: 1.1–1.4]). Similar proportions of the population fell into these two at-risk categories. We did not find evidence of an interaction between caregiver attitude toward vaccination and travel time to care. While geographic access to health facilities is crucial, caregiver demand appears to be a more important driver in improving vaccination rates in rural DRC.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inequality in Immunization 2024)
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Open AccessArticle
Preclinical Immunogenicity and Efficacy Studies for Therapeutic Vaccines for Human Papillomavirus-Type-16-Associated Cancer
by
Mohsen Mohammadi, Amara Saha, Wynetta Giles-Davis, Zhiquan Xiang, Mikhail Novikov, Mohadeseh Hasanpourghadi and Hildegund C. J. Ertl
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 616; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060616 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
The objective of this study was to conduct preclinical immunogenicity and efficacy studies with several therapeutic vaccines for human papillomavirus (HPV)-16-associated cancers expressing the early antigens E5, E6, and E7 with or without E2. The viral oncoproteins were either expressed by themselves as
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The objective of this study was to conduct preclinical immunogenicity and efficacy studies with several therapeutic vaccines for human papillomavirus (HPV)-16-associated cancers expressing the early antigens E5, E6, and E7 with or without E2. The viral oncoproteins were either expressed by themselves as fusion proteins or the fusion proteins were inserted genetically into herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 glycoprotein D (gD) which, upon binding to the herpes virus entry mediator (HVEM), inhibits an early T cell checkpoint mediated by the B and T cell mediator (BTLA). This, in turn, lowers the threshold for T cell activation and augments and broadens CD8+ T cell responses to the antigens. The fusion antigens were expressed by chimpanzee adenovirus (AdC) vectors. Expression of the HPV antigens within gD was essential for vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy against challenge with TC-1 cells, which express E7 and E6 of HPV-16 but neither E5 nor E2. Unexpectedly, inclusion of E2 increased both CD8+ T cell responses to the other oncoproteins of HPV-16 and the effectiveness of the vaccines to cause the regression of sizable TC-1 tumors.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccine Strategies for HPV-Related Cancers)
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Open AccessArticle
Serological Responses of Guinea Pigs and Heifers to Eight Different BoAHV-1 Vaccine Formulations
by
Luana Camargo, Yasmin Vieira Franklin, Gustavo Feliciano Resende da Silva, Janaína Ferreira Santos, Viviana Gladys Parreño, Andrés Wigdorovitz and Viviani Gomes
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 615; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060615 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoAHV-1) infection affects the production and reproductive performance of dairy and beef livestock, resulting in considerable economic losses. In addition to biosecurity measures, vaccination programs are effective strategies for controlling and preventing BoAHV-1 infection and transmission. We evaluated the serological
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Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoAHV-1) infection affects the production and reproductive performance of dairy and beef livestock, resulting in considerable economic losses. In addition to biosecurity measures, vaccination programs are effective strategies for controlling and preventing BoAHV-1 infection and transmission. We evaluated the serological immune response against BoAHV-1 induced by eight different formulations of commercial vaccines: three modified live vaccines and five killed vaccines containing BoAHV type 1 or types 1 and 5. In the first experiment, 50 BoAHV-1-seronegative guinea pigs were assigned to eight groups; each individual in the treatment groups received two doses (one-fifth of the bovine dose). The second experiment was conducted using 29 crossbred Holstein × Gir heifers in four groups of six to nine animals each. The serological immune response against BoAHV-1 was measured using virus neutralization and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays to measure the total IgG against BoAHV. We evaluated the effects of the vaccine, time, and interaction of the vaccine and time on neutralizing antibodies against BoAHV-1. Killed vaccines produced low levels of antibodies against BoAHV-1, whereas modified live vaccines produced high levels of antibodies capable of providing neutralizing titers in the vaccinated animals, with the thermosensitive modified live vaccine showing the highest levels of antibodies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccines and Passive Immune Strategies in Veterinary Medicine)
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of COVID-19 on Influenza and Pneumococcal Vaccination of Psoriatic Patients in Germany: Results from Vac-Pso
by
Christian Kromer, Phoebe Wellmann, Daniel Kromer, Selina Patt, Johannes Mohr, Dagmar Wilsmann-Theis and Rotraut Mössner
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 614; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060614 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: Suboptimal influenza and pneumococcal vaccination rates have been reported before the COVID-19 pandemics in certain populations at risk for severe infection. The aim of this longitudinal cohort study was to investigate changes in influenza and pneumococcal vaccination rates and patient perceptions in
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Background: Suboptimal influenza and pneumococcal vaccination rates have been reported before the COVID-19 pandemics in certain populations at risk for severe infection. The aim of this longitudinal cohort study was to investigate changes in influenza and pneumococcal vaccination rates and patient perceptions in patients with psoriasis (PsO) before and during the pandemic. Methods: Data on vaccination, patient and disease characteristics, comorbidity, and patient perceptions were collected with questionnaires before and during the pandemic approximately one year later. Results: Over the whole cohort who participated in the follow-up visit (n = 287; 59.2% male; mean age: 56.3 years), both influenza and pneumococcal lifetime vaccination prevalences increased significantly from 50.5% to 66.2% and from 16.0% to 41.5%, respectively. A total of 88.5% of PsO patients were interested in a COVID-19 vaccination or had already received it. The reasons for and against vaccinations changed significantly before and during the pandemic. Conclusions: Despite a promising increase in the vaccination prevalence in our PsO cohort, it remains important that awareness for vaccinations is encouraged and closely monitored in future research, particularly in populations at risk.
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Open AccessArticle
Anthrax Vaccination, Gulf War Illness, and Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA)
by
Lisa M. James, Adam F. Carpenter, Brian E. Engdahl, Rachel A. Johnson, Scott M. Lewis and Apostolos P. Georgopoulos
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 613; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060613 - 4 Jun 2024
Abstract
We report on a highly significant, positive association between anthrax vaccination and occurrence of Gulf War Illness (GWI) in 111 Gulf War veterans (42 with GWI and 69 controls). GWI was diagnosed in 47.1% of vaccinated veterans but only in 17.2% of non-vaccinated
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We report on a highly significant, positive association between anthrax vaccination and occurrence of Gulf War Illness (GWI) in 111 Gulf War veterans (42 with GWI and 69 controls). GWI was diagnosed in 47.1% of vaccinated veterans but only in 17.2% of non-vaccinated veterans (Pearson χ2 = 7.08, p = 0.008; odds ratio = 3.947; relative risk = 2.617), with 1.6x higher GWI symptom severity in vaccinated veterans (p = 0.007, F-test in analysis of covariance). Next, we tested the hypothesis that the susceptibility to GWI following anthrax vaccination could be due to inability to make antibodies against the anthrax protective antigen (PA), the key protein contained in the vaccine. Since the first step in initiating antibody production would be the binding of PA peptide fragments (typically 15-amino acid long [15-mer]) to peptide-binding motifs of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) Class II molecules, we assessed the binding-motif affinities of such HLA specific molecules to all linear 15-mer peptide fragments of the anthrax PA. We identified a total of 58 HLA Class II alleles carried by the veterans in our sample and found that, of those, 18 (31%) were present in the vaccinated group that did not develop GWI but were absent from the vaccinated group who developed GWI. Remarkably, in silico analyses revealed very high binding affinities of peptide-binding motifs of those 18 HLA alleles with fragments of anthrax vaccine PA, leading to the successful production of anti-PA antibodies. Conversely, the absence of these protective HLA alleles points to a reduced ability to develop antibodies against PA, thus resulting in harmful PA persistence and development of GWI.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bacterial and Viral Immunity and Vaccination)
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