gammaPGA Conjugates for Eliciting Immune Responses Directed Against Bacillus anthracis and Other Bacilli
Description of Invention:
This invention claims immunogenic conjugates of a poly-gamma-glutamic acid (gammaPGA) of B. anthracis, or of another bacillus that expresses a gammaPGA that elicit a serum antibody response against B. anthracis, in mammalian hosts to which the conjugates are administered. The invention also relates methods which are useful for eliciting an immunogenic response in mammals, particularly humans, including responses which provide protection against, or reduce the severity of, infections caused by B. anthracis. The vaccines claimed in this application are intended for active immunization for prevention of B. anthracis infection, and for preparation of immune antibodies. The vaccines of this invention are designed to confer specific immunity against infection with B. anthracis, and to induce antibodies specific to B. anthracis gammaPGA. The B. anthracis vaccine is composed of non-toxic bacterial components, suitable for infants, children of all ages, and adults.
Inventors:
Rachel Schneerson (NICHD) Stephen Leppla (NIAID) John Robbins (NICHD) Joseph Shiloach (NIDDK) Joanna Kubler-Kielb (NICHD) Darrell Liu (NIDCR) Fathy Majadly (NICHD)
Patent Status:
DHHS Reference No. E-343-2002/0 --
U.S. Patent Application No. 10/559,825 filed 02 Dec 2005, claiming priority to 05 Jun 2003
Relevant Publication: R Schneerson et al. Poly(gamma-D-glutamic acid) protein conjugates induce IgG antibodies in mice to the capsule of Bacillus anthracis: a potential addition to the anthrax vaccine. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2003 Jul 22;100(15):8945-8950. [PubMed abs]
For Additional Information Please Contact: Peter A. Soukas J.D.
NIH Office of Technology Transfer
6011 Executive Blvd, Suite 325
Rockville, MD 20852-3804
Phone: (301) 435-4646
Email: soukasp@mail.nih.gov
Fax: (301) 402-0220
