A universal influenza mRNA vaccine candidate boosts T cell responses and reduces zoonotic influenza virus disease in ferrets.

ABSTRACT: Universal influenza vaccines should protect against continuously evolving and newly emerging influenza viruses. T cells may be an essential target of such vaccines, as they can clear infected cells through recognition of conserved influenza virus epitopes. We evaluated a novel T cell-inducing nucleoside-modified messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine that encodes the conserved nucleoprotein, matrix protein 1, and polymerase basic protein 1 of an H1N1 influenza virus. To mimic the human situation, we applied the mRNA vaccine as a prime-boost regimen in naïve ferrets (mimicking young children) and as a booster in influenza-experienced ferrets (mimicking adults). The vaccine induced and boosted broadly reactive T cells in the circulation, bone marrow, and respiratory tract. Booster vaccination enhanced

SUBMITTER: van de Ven K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9750153 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature