Induction of Long-Term Protective Immune Responses by Influenza H5N1 Virus-Like Particles
2009

Protection by H5N1 Virus-Like Particles

Sample size: 6 publication 10 minutes Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Kang Sang-Moo, Yoo Dae-Goon, Lipatov Aleksandr S., Song Jae-Min, Davis C. Todd, Quan Fu-Shi, Chen Li-Mei, Donis Ruben O., Compans Richard W.

Primary Institution: Emory University School of Medicine

Hypothesis

Can influenza H5N1 virus-like particles (VLPs) induce long-term protective immune responses?

Conclusion

H5N1 VLP vaccination can induce long-lasting protective immunity against H5N1 influenza in mice.

Supporting Evidence

  • Mice immunized with H5N1 VLPs developed high levels of specific antibodies.
  • 100% protection was observed against a high dose of homologous H5N1 virus infection.
  • Immunized mice showed rapid immune responses upon re-exposure to the virus.

Takeaway

The study shows that a new type of flu vaccine made from virus-like particles can help mice stay safe from a dangerous flu virus for a long time.

Methodology

Mice were immunized intranasally with H5N1 VLPs and then challenged with a lethal dose of H5N1 virus to assess protection and immune response.

Limitations

The study was conducted in mice, and results may not directly translate to humans.

Participant Demographics

Female inbred BALB/c mice aged 6 to 8 weeks.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.02

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004667

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