Pneumococcal protein vaccines, evaluation of immune responses under different presentations.

Author(s)

Cibelly Goulart

• Document type: Doctoral Thesis
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB/SDI)
• Defense date: 2015-02-27

Examining board members

Luciana Cezar de Cerqueira Leite; Luis Carlos de Souza Ferreira; Gabriel Padilla Maldonado; Eliana Faquim de Lima Mauro; Roxane Maria Fontes Piazza

• Advisor: Luciana Cezar de Cerqueira Leite

Abstract

Several pneumococcal proteins have been proposed as vaccine candidates. PspA and Ply induce protective antibodies against sepse, while SP 0148 and SP 2108, induce IL-17 and protect mice against pneumococcal colonization. The major aim of this study was to produce pneumococcal vaccines based on proteins. First, we selected one PspA molecule able to induce broad-ranging cross-reactivity. Second, we constructed a hybrid protein containing a PspA fused to PdT, a detoxified form of Ply. The hybrid protein was able to induce humoral and cellular responses and protected mice against lethal challenge. Finally, due the adjuvant properties of BCG, we constructed recombinant BCG strains expressing PspA-PdT, SP 0148 and SP 2108. The immunization with rBCG-0148/rSP 0148 induced IL-17 and IFN-, and pneumococcal colonization in mice. Interestingly, the combination of all rBCG vaccines was more efficient in protecting mice against pneumococcal colonization. These results suggesting a promising use of rBCG as pneumococcal vaccine. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 09/17030-4 - Pneumococcal protein vaccines, evaluation of immune responses under different presentations
• Grantee: Cibelly Goulart
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)