Microencapsulated Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccine

The long term objective is to develop a commercial subunit vaccine for human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Because of the high cost of preparing these glycoproteins, a means for achieving an enhanced immune response is an important objective, and it is the focus. Biocompatible and biodegradable microspheres consisting of a copolymer of DL-lactide and glycolide (poly DL-lactide-co-glycolide) will be utilized to incorporate RSV antigens into small spherical particles (1-10 um). Microspheres containing viral antigens will be used for subcutaneous, oral immunization of experimental animals, and their immune response will be evaluated. For comparison, different groups of animals will be immunized with whole virus and purified viral glycoproteins by subcutaneous and intranasal routes. If a significant enhancement in the protective immune response is observed using microencapsulated RSV antigens, more detailed studies will be subsequently pursued. Studies will also be conducted to understand the mechanism of protection (cellular/antibody mediated), and the duration of such response.