Strategic Herpesvirus Immune Evasion and Latency Defense

Division Of Basic Sciences - Nci

Investigators

Abstract

We have immunized mice with nine different EBV antigens and six different KSHV antigens. These are in two different formulations, purified proteins and nucleic acids along with their respective adjuvants. We have collected serum and splenocytes to share with collaborators who will examine antigen-specific antibodies that are elicited by the immunogens and examine their functional properties to bind antigen, neutralize infection, and trigger cell death. We have optimized protocols to produce KSHV and measure infectious particle production. We have developed quantitative ELISAs and neutralization assays for MHV68 as a proof-of-concept. To test the efficacy of immunogens to elicit protection from infection, we designed MHV68 viruses that will express single EBV and KSHV antigens for challenge of vaccinated animals. These MHV68 recombinants will serve as surrogate challenge viruses for EBV and KSHV since the human GHV do not directly infect immune competent mice.