Development of multi-epitope vaccines against the monkeypox virus based on envelope proteins using immunoinformatics approaches

• DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1112816
• Publication Date: 2023-03-13T05:52:54Z
• Authors: Caixia Tan; Fei Zhu; Pinhua Pan; Anhua Wu; Chunhui Li
• Keywords: Monkeypox; Docking (animal)

Since May 2022, cases of monkeypox, a zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), have been increasingly reported worldwide. There are, however, no proven therapies or vaccines available for monkeypox. In this study, several multi-epitope were designed against MPXV using immunoinformatics approaches.Three target proteins, A35R and B6R, enveloped virion (EV) form-derived antigens, H3L, expressed on mature (MV) form, selected epitope identification. The shortlisted epitopes fused with appropriate adjuvants linkers to vaccine candidates. biophysical andbiochemical features candidates evaluated. Molecular docking molecular dynamics(MD) simulation run understand binding mode stability between Toll-like receptors (TLRs) major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs). immunogenicity was evaluated via immune simulation.Five constructs (MPXV-1-5) formed. After evaluation various immunological physicochemical parameters, MPXV-2 MPXV-5 further analysis. results showed that had stronger affinity TLRs (TLR2 TLR4) MHC (HLA-A*02:01 HLA-DRB1*02:01) molecules, analyses dynamics (MD) confirmed strong molecules. indicated both could effectively induce robust protective responses in human body.The good efficacy theory, but studies are required validate their safety efficacy.