A consensus–hemagglutinin-based DNA vaccine that protects mice against divergent H5N1 influenza viruses

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0806901105
• Publication Date: 2008-09-03T01:37:12Z
• Authors: Ming-Wei Chen; Ting-Jen Rachel C...; Yaoxing Huang; Jia-Tsrong Jan; Shiou-Hwa Ma; Alice L. Yu; Chi-Huey Wong; David D. Ho
• Keywords: Pandemic; H5N1 genetic structure

H5N1 influenza viruses have spread extensively among wild birds and domestic poultry. Cross-species transmission of these to humans has been documented in over 380 cases, with a mortality rate approximately 60%. There is great concern that virus would acquire the ability efficiently between humans, thereby becoming pandemic threat. An vaccine must, therefore, be an integral part any preparedness plan. However, traditional methods making vaccines yet produce candidate could induce potently neutralizing antibodies against divergent strains viruses. To address this need, we generated consensus hemagglutinin (HA) sequence based on data available early 2006. This was then optimized for protein expression before being inserted into DNA plasmid (pCHA5). Immunizing mice pCHA5, delivered intramuscularly via electroporation, elicited neutralized panel virions pseudotyped HA from various (clades 1, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3.2, 2.3.4). Moreover, immunization pCHA5 conferred complete 1 2.2) or significant (clade 2.1) protection challenges. We conclude vaccine, HA, broad thus warrants further study.