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National Vaccine Program Office
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Proposal Number: | N2 |
PI Name: | Schmaljohn, Connie, PhD |
PI Email: | |
PI Title: | Chief |
Project Title: | Multiagent DNA vaccines delivered by painless skin delivery devices. |
Project Start: | 2003 |
Project End: | 2003 |
Abstract: DNA vaccines offer potential solutions to some of the obstacles encountered in developing multiagent vaccines using conventional approaches or viral vectors. DNA based vaccines can be produced at low biocontainment levels, without the need to grow or inactivate infectious organisms and with no possibility of reversion to virulence. In addition, DNA vaccines avoid the regulatory issues associated with vaccine preparation in certified cell cultures, with accompanying concerns of adventitious agents. Nucleic acid vaccines have no protein carrier. They are not impeded by preexisting immunity such as those encountered with recombinant vaccinia viruses, adenoviruses, or other vectored vaccines. Most promising is DNA vaccine technology, which offers a means to produce multiagent vaccines easily and inexpensively. Despite this promise, few studies have been conducted which explore the use of DNA vaccines in combination. In addition, little is known about how to best administer diverse multiagent DNA vaccines to achieve optimal immune responses.
In this project, we will evaluate the immunogenicity of several diverse DNA vaccines given individually or in combination to test animals. Four needle-free delivery devices will be compared: gene gun, liquid application combined with mild dermabrasion, liquid application combined with a chemical that promotes skin entry, and microneedle injection. We will measure antibody responses to each vaccine and for some of the agents, will perform virulent challenges to assess protective efficacy. These studies will allow us to determine the most effective way of delivering combination DNA vaccines.
Institution: Department of Defense
Date: July 2003
Last revised: January 13, 2004
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