A broad-spectrum vaccination against influenza

Camels, dromedaries, llamas, alpacas, guanacos and vicuñas all belong to the family of camelids, the same that inspired the experimental anti-flu vaccine developed at Scripps Research Institute. Laboratory tests have shown that this vaccine is effective against influenza A and B viruses, responsible for most cases of influenza in humans. In theory, this vaccine could fight 60 variants of flu forms. Its action is much faster than that of traditional vaccines and a nasal inhalation by spray is enough.

A universal vaccine

The new vaccine developed in California guarantees durable protection where the monoclonal antibodies [VIDEO], specific to influenza A and type B strains, are linked together in a single multidomain antibody.

All thanks to a recombinant vector, capable of ensuring effective intranasal administration.

This has been achieved immunization of llamas with an influenza vaccine [VIDEO]. The monoclonal antibodies generated were then isolated the variable components of the heavy chains generated antibodies. Through a phage display (phage display) single monoclonal antibody domains were isolated against two types of influenza A (SD36 and SD38) and two types of influenza B (SD83 and SD84).

From in vitro neutralization studies, theSD36 he was extremely active group strains 2 (H3, H4, H7 and H10) but not in group 1 (H1, H2 and H5). While theSD38 he's turned out active on group 1 strains (H1, H2 and H5) and, to a lesser extent, some Group 2 strains (H3, H7 and H10).

SD83 and SD84 instead, they neutralized representative viruses of both B virus lines.

Combination of lines SD38-SD36 and SD83-SD84 these were extremely effective, compared to isolated lines taken individually, to counter the selected influenza A and B viruses.

These antibody fragments, derived from antibodies directed against camelids (e.g.), combined with a suitable carrier, they led to two vaccines, MD3606 and MD2407, able to ensure an effective vaccination coverage. In particular, vaccines were administered to elderly and immunodeficient mice and protected them against lethal dose of H1N1. Protection has extended for more than 9 months in the mouse, and 4 months in the Rhesus macaque (primates widespread in Asia). MD3606 and MD2407 show almost universal efficiency against influenza viruses A and B, and both can be expressed by a single recombinant adenovirus vector, AAV (recombinant adeno-badociated virus).

If preclinical results that have just been described were to be confirmed in humans, a single annual intranasal administration, an AAV / MD3606 vaccine, could provide a pbadive protection for the whole season influenza.

A significant benefit for seniors and other high-risk groups. The rapid start of protection, combined with extensive coverage against many influenza strains, an MD3606 vaccine recommended in the immediate prophylaxis, at the beginning of an influenza pandemic, with substantial benefits compared to traditional vaccination.

A century of Spanish

This year, it is only a century of the famous "great influence"O"Spanish influence". In 1918, just after the First World War, an unusually deadly influenza pandemic struck the people. in two years from 1918 to 1920, to the four corners of the planet about 500 million people have been affected. remillions of millions, mostly previously healthy young adults, died as a result of this H1N1-like form.

In this century science has taken giant steps but no one can exclude that in the future there may be another influenza pandemic. Admittedly, the victims will not be comparable to those of the "great Spanish influence", but to equip themselves in time may be appropriate.

This new vaccine, if in clinical studies will respond as effectively as in preclinical tests, is a garrison that goes in that direction.