Journal Description
Vaccines
Vaccines
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal published monthly online by MDPI. The American Society for Virology (ASV) is affiliated with Vaccines and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, Embase, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Immunology) / CiteScore - Q1 (Pharmacology (medical))
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 19.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
7.8 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
7.4 (2022)
Latest Articles
Long Prime–Boost Interval and Heightened Anti-GD2 Antibody Response to Carbohydrate Cancer Vaccine
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060587 (registering DOI) - 28 May 2024
Abstract
The carbohydrate ganglioside GD2/GD3 cancer vaccine adjuvanted by β-glucan stimulates anti-GD2 IgG1 antibodies that strongly correlate with improved progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) among patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. Thirty-two patients who relapsed on the vaccine (first enrollment) were re-treated on the
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The carbohydrate ganglioside GD2/GD3 cancer vaccine adjuvanted by β-glucan stimulates anti-GD2 IgG1 antibodies that strongly correlate with improved progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) among patients with high-risk neuroblastoma. Thirty-two patients who relapsed on the vaccine (first enrollment) were re-treated on the same vaccine protocol (re-enrollment). Titers during the first enrollment peaked by week 32 at 751 ± 270 ng/mL, which plateaued despite vaccine boosts at 1.2–4.5 month intervals. After a median wash-out interval of 16.1 months from the last vaccine dose during the first enrollment to the first vaccine dose during re-enrollment, the anti-GD2 IgG1 antibody rose to a peak of 4066 ± 813 ng/mL by week 3 following re-enrollment (p < 0.0001 by the Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed-rank test). Yet, these peaks dropped sharply and continually despite repeated boosts at 1.2–4.5 month intervals, before leveling off by week 20 to the first enrollment peak levels. Despite higher antibody titers, patients experienced no pain or neuropathic side effects, which were typically associated with immunotherapy using monoclonal anti-GD2 antibodies. By the Kaplan–Meier method, PFS was estimated to be 51%, and OS was 81%. The association between IgG1 titer during re-enrollment and β-glucan receptor dectin-1 SNP rs3901533 was significant (p = 0.01). A longer prime–boost interval could significantly improve antibody responses in patients treated with ganglioside conjugate cancer vaccines.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 2nd Edition of Antibody Response to Infection and Vaccination)
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Open AccessReview
How to Accelerate Early Stage of Malaria Vaccine Development by Optimizing Functional Assays
by
Kazutoyo Miura
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 586; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060586 - 28 May 2024
Abstract
While two Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein-based pre-erythrocytic vaccines (PEV), RTS,S and R21, have been approved by the WHO, no blood-stage vaccine (BSV) or transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) has reached a phase 3 trial. One of the major obstacles that slows down malaria vaccine development
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While two Plasmodium falciparum circumsporozoite protein-based pre-erythrocytic vaccines (PEV), RTS,S and R21, have been approved by the WHO, no blood-stage vaccine (BSV) or transmission-blocking vaccine (TBV) has reached a phase 3 trial. One of the major obstacles that slows down malaria vaccine development is the shortage (or lack) of in vitro assays or animal models by which investigators can reasonably select the best vaccine formulation (e.g., antigen, adjuvant, or platform) and/or immunization strategy (e.g., interval of inoculation or route of immunization) before a human phase 2 trial. In the case of PEV, RTS,S and R21 have set a benchmark, and a new vaccine can be compared with (one of) the approved PEV directly in preclinical or early clinical studies. However, such an approach cannot be utilized for BSV or TBV development at this moment. The focus of this review is in vitro assays or in vivo models that can be used for P. falciparum BSV or TBV development, and I discuss important considerations during assay selection, standardization, qualification, validation, and interpretation of the assay results. Establishment of a robust assay/model with proper interpretation of the results is the one of key elements to accelerate future vaccine development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Malaria Vaccines: From Vaccine Candidate Discovery to Clinical Trials)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Evaluating Scope and Bias of Population-Level Measles Serosurveys: A Systematized Review and Bias Assessment
by
Alyssa N. Sbarra, Felicity T. Cutts, Han Fu, Ishu Poudyal, Dale A. Rhoda, Jonathan F. Mosser and Mark Jit
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 585; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060585 - 28 May 2024
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Background: Measles seroprevalence data have potential to be a useful tool for understanding transmission dynamics and for decision making efforts to strengthen immunization programs. In this study, we conducted a systematized review and bias assessment of all primary data on measles seroprevalence in
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Background: Measles seroprevalence data have potential to be a useful tool for understanding transmission dynamics and for decision making efforts to strengthen immunization programs. In this study, we conducted a systematized review and bias assessment of all primary data on measles seroprevalence in low- and middle-income countries (as defined by World Bank 2021 income classifications) published from 1962 to 2021. Methods: On 9 March 2022, we searched PubMed for all available data. We included studies containing primary data on measles seroprevalence and excluded studies if they were clinical trials or brief reports, from only health-care workers, suspected measles cases, or only vaccinated persons. We extracted all available information on measles seroprevalence, study design, and seroassay protocol. We conducted a bias assessment based on multiple categories and classified each study as having low, moderate, severe, or critical bias. This review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022326075). Results: We identified 221 relevant studies across all World Health Organization regions, decades, and unique age ranges. The overall crude mean seroprevalence across all studies was 78.0% (SD: 19.3%), and the median seroprevalence was 84.0% (IQR: 72.8–91.7%). We classified 80 (36.2%) studies as having severe or critical overall bias. Studies from country-years with lower measles vaccine coverage or higher measles incidence had higher overall bias. Conclusions: While many studies have substantial underlying bias, many studies still provide some insights or data that could be used to inform modelling efforts to examine measles dynamics and programmatic decisions to reduce measles susceptibility.
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Open AccessArticle
Timing of Assessment of Humoral and Cell-Mediated Immunity after Influenza Vaccination
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Naruhito Otani, Kazuhiko Nakajima, Kumiko Yamada, Kaori Ishikawa, Kaoru Ichiki, Takashi Ueda, Yoshio Takesue, Takuma Yamamoto, Satoshi Higasa, Susumu Tanimura, Yuta Inai and Toshiomi Okuno
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 584; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060584 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Assessment of the immune response to influenza vaccines should include an assessment of both humoral and cell-mediated immunity. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding the timing of immunological assessment of humoral and cell-mediated immunity after vaccination. Therefore, we investigated the timing
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Assessment of the immune response to influenza vaccines should include an assessment of both humoral and cell-mediated immunity. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding the timing of immunological assessment of humoral and cell-mediated immunity after vaccination. Therefore, we investigated the timing of immunological assessments after vaccination using markers of humoral and cell-mediated immunity. In the 2018/2019 influenza season, blood was collected from 29 healthy adults before and after vaccination with a quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine, and we performed serial measurements of humoral immunity (hemagglutination inhibition [HAI] and neutralizing antibody [NT]) and cell-mediated immunity (interferon-gamma [IFN-γ]). The HAI and NT titers before and after vaccination were strongly correlated, but no correlation was observed between the markers of cell-mediated and humoral immunity. The geometric mean titer and geometric mean concentration of humoral and cellular immune markers increased within 2 weeks after vaccination and had already declined by 8 weeks. This study suggests that the optimal time to assess the immune response is 2 weeks after vaccination. Appropriately timed immunological assessments can help ensure that vaccination is effective.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immune Correlates of Protection in Vaccines)
Open AccessReview
Feasibility of Using a Type I IFN-Based Non-Animal Approach to Predict Vaccine Efficacy and Safety Profiles
by
Hanin Abdel-Haq
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060583 - 27 May 2024
Abstract
Animal-based tests are used for the control of vaccine quality. However, because highly purified and safe vaccines are now available, alternative approaches that can replace or reduce animal use for the assessment of vaccine outcomes must be established. In vitro tests for vaccine
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Animal-based tests are used for the control of vaccine quality. However, because highly purified and safe vaccines are now available, alternative approaches that can replace or reduce animal use for the assessment of vaccine outcomes must be established. In vitro tests for vaccine quality control exist and have already been implemented. However, these tests are specifically designed for some next-generation vaccines, and this makes them not readily available for testing other vaccines. Therefore, universal non-animal tests are still needed. Specific signatures of the innate immune response could represent a promising approach to predict the outcome of vaccines by non-animal methods. Type I interferons (IFNs) have multiple immunomodulatory activities, which are exerted through effectors called interferon stimulated genes (ISGs), and are one of the most important immune signatures that might provide potential candidate molecular biomarkers for this purpose. This paper will mainly examine if this idea might be feasible by analyzing all relevant published studies that have provided type I IFN-related biomarkers for evaluating the safety and efficacy profiles of vaccines using an advanced transcriptomic approach as an alternative to the animal methods. Results revealed that such an approach could potentially provide biomarkers predictive of vaccine outcomes after addressing some limitations.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vaccine Efficacy and Safety)
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Open AccessArticle
Possible Changes and Trends in Non-COVID-19 Vaccine-Prescribing Patterns before and during COVID-19 Pandemic
by
Shirie van Rooyen, Martie Lubbe, Irma Kotze and Nkengafac Villyen Motaze
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060582 - 27 May 2024
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Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many children missed their routine vaccinations globally. There is insufficient evidence on the trends in vaccination coverage in the private healthcare sector in South Africa. This study explored the changes in childhood vaccination patterns (non-COVID vaccines) in the
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Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many children missed their routine vaccinations globally. There is insufficient evidence on the trends in vaccination coverage in the private healthcare sector in South Africa. This study explored the changes in childhood vaccination patterns (non-COVID vaccines) in the private healthcare sector in South Africa using medicine claim data. Using the information on medication claims from a South African pharmaceutical benefit management (PBM) company, we performed a quantitative cross-sectional analysis comparing the period before (2018–2019) and during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2021). All patients who made claims within the study period were included. This study included 67,830 children aged two years and younger. In particular, from 2018 to 2021, boys (52%) outnumbered girls (48%). Pharmacists consistently held the predominant prescriber role before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proportion of children receiving non-COVID-19 vaccines was higher before the pandemic (60%) than during the pandemic (55%). Furthermore, there was a notable decline of 5% in measles vaccination rates during the children’s first year of life, while a notable increase was observed for measles (5%), hepatitis A (7.7%), and the pentavalent vaccine (5%) during the second year of life. Governments and private healthcare providers must take action to enhance vaccination coverage rates for children in their first year of life to prevent a resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases. The results obtained in this study underscore the significance of implementing vaccine catch-up campaigns to address missed vaccination opportunities arising from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, pharmacists emerged as the predominant healthcare providers responsible for administering vaccinations within the private healthcare sector in South Africa, both prior and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their pivotal role in the vaccination process warrants due recognition and should not be underestimated.
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Open AccessArticle
Lessons Learned from the COVID-19 Pandemic: Interpreting Vaccination Strategies in a Nationwide Demographic Study
by
Igor Age Kos, Faissal Nemer Hajar, Gustavo Sarot Pereira da Cunha, Claudia Corte, Luisa Augusto Furlan, André Santa Maria, Douglas Valverde, Bárbara Emoingt Furtado, Miguel Morita Fernandes-Silva and Valderilio Feijó Azevedo
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 581; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060581 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
Objective: Brazil was strongly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its continental dimension and socio-demographic characteristics pose challenges to distribution and accessibility, making vaccination programs challenging. The objectives of the study were to describe the clinical and demographic characteristics of the general population vaccinated
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Objective: Brazil was strongly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Its continental dimension and socio-demographic characteristics pose challenges to distribution and accessibility, making vaccination programs challenging. The objectives of the study were to describe the clinical and demographic characteristics of the general population vaccinated against COVID-19 by October 2021 and analyze the strategies implemented during the vaccination program. Study design and setting: A retrospective nationwide study that analyzed data from the OpenDataSUS platform of the Informatics Department of the Brazilian Ministry of Health (DataSUS), which contains information from all individuals in Brazil who have received at least one dose of any vaccine against COVID-19 approved by the National Health Agency (ANVISA) from 17 January to 3 October 2021. Results: Until 3 October, a total of 146,254,578 persons (68.6 per 100 inhabitants) received at least one dose of a vaccine in Brazil. The north and northeast regions had the lowest vaccination rates compared with the remaining regions (North: 56.8, Northeast: 62.0, South: 74.4, and Southeast: 73.2 per 100 inhabitants). Elderly individuals had the highest vaccination rates, particularly those above 70 years old. Heterologous dosing regimens were administered to 1,063,079 individuals (0.7% of those receiving the first dose). Conclusions: The COVID-19 vaccination program reached more than two-thirds of the population in Brazil by 9 months after its start, but the vaccination coverage was heterogeneous, reflecting the country’s geographic and socio-demographic characteristics. Establishing priority groups for vaccination was a main characteristic of the vaccination strategy. In addition, technology transfer agreements have played an important role in increasing vaccine accessibility.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Strategies for Global Public Health)
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Open AccessArticle
A Combined LC-MS and Immunoassay Approach to Characterize Preservative-Induced Destabilization of Human Papillomavirus Virus-like Particles Adsorbed to an Aluminum-Salt Adjuvant
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Ria T. Caringal, John M. Hickey, Nitya Sharma, Kaushal Jerajani, Oluwadara Bewaji, Sarah Brendle, Neil Christensen, Saurabh Batwal, Mustafa Mahedvi, Harish Rao, Vikas Dogar, Rahul Chandrasekharan, Umesh Shaligram, Sangeeta B. Joshi and David B. Volkin
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 580; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060580 - 26 May 2024
Abstract
During the multi-dose formulation development of recombinant vaccine candidates, protein antigens can be destabilized by antimicrobial preservatives (APs). The degradation mechanisms are often poorly understood since available analytical tools are limited due to low protein concentrations and the presence of adjuvants. In this
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During the multi-dose formulation development of recombinant vaccine candidates, protein antigens can be destabilized by antimicrobial preservatives (APs). The degradation mechanisms are often poorly understood since available analytical tools are limited due to low protein concentrations and the presence of adjuvants. In this work, we evaluate different analytical approaches to monitor the structural integrity of HPV16 VLPs adsorbed to Alhydrogel™ (AH) in the presence and absence of APs (i.e., destabilizing m-cresol, MC, or non-destabilizing chlorobutanol, CB) under accelerated conditions (pH 7.4, 50 °C). First, in vitro potency losses displayed only modest correlations with the results from two commonly used methods of protein analysis (SDS-PAGE, DSC). Next, results from two alternative analytical approaches provided a better understanding of physicochemical events occurring under these same conditions: (1) competitive ELISA immunoassays with a panel of mAbs against conformational and linear epitopes on HPV16 VLPs and (2) LC-MS peptide mapping to evaluate the accessibility/redox state of the 12 cysteine residues within each L1 protein comprising the HPV16 VLP (i.e., with 360 L1 proteins per VLP, there are 4320 Cys residues per VLP). These methods expand the limited analytical toolset currently available to characterize AH-adsorbed antigens and provide additional insights into the molecular mechanism(s) of AP-induced destabilization of vaccine antigens.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Vaccine Adjuvants and Formulation)
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Open AccessReview
A Review of Protein-Based COVID-19 Vaccines: From Monovalent to Multivalent Formulations
by
Gui Qian, Cuige Gao, Miaomiao Zhang, Yuanxin Chen and Liangzhi Xie
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060579 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic, has profoundly impacted global healthcare systems and the trajectory of economic advancement. As nations grapple with the far-reaching consequences of this unprecedented health crisis, the administration of
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The emergence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic, has profoundly impacted global healthcare systems and the trajectory of economic advancement. As nations grapple with the far-reaching consequences of this unprecedented health crisis, the administration of COVID-19 vaccines has proven to be a pivotal strategy in managing this crisis. Protein-based vaccines have garnered significant attention owing to their commendable safety profile and precise immune targeting advantages. Nonetheless, the unpredictable mutations and widespread transmission of SARS-CoV-2 have posed challenges for vaccine developers and governments worldwide. Monovalent and multivalent vaccines represent two strategies in COVID-19 vaccine development, with ongoing controversy surrounding their efficacy. This review concentrates on the development of protein-based COVID-19 vaccines, specifically addressing the transition from monovalent to multivalent formulations, and synthesizes data on vaccine manufacturers, antigen composition, pivotal clinical study findings, and other features that shape their distinct profiles and overall effectiveness. Our hypothesis is that multivalent vaccine strategies for COVID-19 could offer enhanced capability with broad-spectrum protection.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Review Special Issue Series—Measuring Neutralizing Antibody Responses against SARS-CoV-2 and Emerging Infectious Diseases)
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Open AccessArticle
Impact of HIV-Related Immune Impairment of Yellow Fever Vaccine Immunogenicity in People Living with HIV—ANRS 12403
by
Diogo Gama Caetano, Thais Stelzer Toledo, Ana Carolina Souza de Lima, Carmem Beatriz Wagner Giacoia-Gripp, Dalziza Victalina de Almeida, Sheila Maria Barbosa de Lima, Adriana de Souza Azevedo, Michelle Morata, Beatriz Grinsztejn, Sandra Wagner Cardoso, Marcellus Dias da Costa, Luciana Gomes Pedro Brandão, Ana Maria Bispo de Filippis, Daniel Scott-Algara, Lara Esteves Coelho and Fernanda Heloise Côrtes
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060578 - 25 May 2024
Abstract
The yellow fever (YF) vaccine is one of the safest and most effective vaccines currently available. Still, its administration in people living with HIV (PLWH) is limited due to safety concerns and a lack of consensus regarding decreased immunogenicity and long-lasting protection for
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The yellow fever (YF) vaccine is one of the safest and most effective vaccines currently available. Still, its administration in people living with HIV (PLWH) is limited due to safety concerns and a lack of consensus regarding decreased immunogenicity and long-lasting protection for this population. The mechanisms associated with impaired YF vaccine immunogenicity in PLWH are not fully understood, but the general immune deregulation during HIV infection may play an important role. To assess if HIV infection impacts YF vaccine immunogenicity and if markers of immune deregulation could predict lower immunogenicity, we evaluated the association of YF neutralization antibody (NAb) titers with the pre-vaccination frequency of activated and exhausted T cells, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and frequency of T cells, B cells, and monocyte subsets in PLWH and HIV-negative controls. We observed impaired YF vaccine immunogenicity in PLWH with lower titers of YF-NAbs 30 days after vaccination, mainly in individuals with CD4 count <350 cells/mm3. At the baseline, those individuals were characterized by having a higher frequency of activated and exhausted T cells and tissue-like memory B cells. Elevated levels of those markers were also observed in individuals with CD4 count between 500 and 350 cells/mm3. We observed a negative correlation between the pre-vaccination level of CD8+ T cell exhaustion and CD4+ T cell activation with YF-NAb titers at D365 and the pre-vaccination level of IP-10 with YF-NAb titers at D30 and D365. Our results emphasize the impact of immune activation, exhaustion, and inflammation in YF vaccine immunogenicity in PLWH.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Researches on Flavivirus Vaccines II)
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Open AccessArticle
Protective Efficacy of a Novel DNA Vaccine with a CL264 Molecular Adjuvant against Toxoplasma gondii in a Murine Model
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Kunping Ju, Yunnan Zhang, Zhaolin Xu, Lingyu Li, Xiaoyan Zhao and Huaiyu Zhou
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060577 - 25 May 2024
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Toxoplasmosis is a significant global zoonosis with devastating impacts, and an effective vaccine against toxoplasmosis for humans has not yet been developed. In this study, we designed and formulated a novel DNA vaccine encoding the inhibitor of STAT1 transcriptional activity (IST) of T.
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Toxoplasmosis is a significant global zoonosis with devastating impacts, and an effective vaccine against toxoplasmosis for humans has not yet been developed. In this study, we designed and formulated a novel DNA vaccine encoding the inhibitor of STAT1 transcriptional activity (IST) of T. gondii utilizing the eukaryotic expression vector pEGFP-N1 for the first time, with CL264 being a molecular adjuvant. Following intramuscular injection of the vaccine into mice, the levels of antibodies and cytokines were assessed to evaluate the immune response. Additionally, mice were challenged with highly virulent RH-strain tachyzoites of T. gondii, and their survival time was observed. The results show that the levels of IgG in serum, the ratio of IgG2a/IgG1 and the levels of IFN-γ in splenocytes of mice were significantly higher in the pEGFP-TgIST group and the pEGFP-TgIST + CL264 group than in the control group. In addition, the proportion of CD4+/CD8+ T cells was higher in mice immunized with either the pEGFP-TgIST group (p < 0.001) or the pEGFP-TgIST + CL264 group (p < 0.05) compared to the three control groups. Notably, TgIST-immunized mice exhibited prolonged survival times after T. gondii RH strain infection (p < 0.05). Our findings collectively demonstrate that the TgIST DNA vaccine elicits a significant humoral and cellular immune response and offers partial protection against acute T. gondii infection in the immunized mice, which suggests that TgIST holds potential as a candidate for further development as a DNA vaccine.
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Adverse Events Post-13-Valent Pneumococcal Vaccination among Children in Hangzhou, China
by
Jing Wang, Jian Du, Yan Liu, Xinren Che, Yuyang Xu and Jiayin Han
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 576; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060576 - 25 May 2024
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With the widespread use of the 13-valent pneumonia vaccine (PCV13) in China, monitoring adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) is critical. We conducted a descriptive analysis of the AEFI occurrences reported within Hangzhou between the years 2020 and 2023, including the temporal trend of
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With the widespread use of the 13-valent pneumonia vaccine (PCV13) in China, monitoring adverse events following immunization (AEFIs) is critical. We conducted a descriptive analysis of the AEFI occurrences reported within Hangzhou between the years 2020 and 2023, including the temporal trend of case reports and variables such as sex, age, type of PCV13, dose number, type of reporter, cause-specific classification, severity, and onset from vaccination. Vaccine safety signals were analyzed using reporting odds ratios (RORs). Over the 4 years analyzed in the study, 2564 AEFI cases were reported, including seven severe cases. Most AEFIs occurred within 0–1 days after vaccination (2398, 93.53%), with over half affecting infants aged 1.5–6 months of age. No statistically significant difference was observed between PCV13-TT and PCV-CRM197. Seasonal differences in AEFI reports were noted. Positive signals were detected for fever (ROR-1.96SE: 1.64) and persistent crying (ROR-1.96SE: 1.61). Four serious AEFI cases were coincidental events, while three others were considered vaccine-related cases (including one case each of allergic reaction, febrile seizure, and thrombocytopenia). The safety and tolerability of PCV13 are good, and attention should be paid to severe AEFIs, as well as long-term safety disparities between different types of PCV13.
Full article
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Cardiac and Neurological Complications Post COVID-19 Vaccination: A Systematic Review of Case Reports and Case Series
by
Kai Wei Lee, Sook Fan Yap, Syafinaz Amin-Nordin and Yun Fong Ngeow
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 575; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060575 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Following mass vaccinations for the control of the COVID-19 epidemic, a spectrum of cardiac and neurological disorders was reported among vaccinated individuals. This study examined the range of complications documented and factors related to their occurrence. Three electronic databases were searched for case
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Following mass vaccinations for the control of the COVID-19 epidemic, a spectrum of cardiac and neurological disorders was reported among vaccinated individuals. This study examined the range of complications documented and factors related to their occurrence. Three electronic databases were searched for case reports and case series with descriptions of cardiac and/or neurological complications in COVID-19 vaccine recipients. A total of 698 vaccinees were included in this review, of which 259 (37.1%) had cardiac and 439 (62.9%) had neurological complications. Inflammatory conditions were the commonest among the cardiac complications; while polyneuropathy, demyelinating diseases and cerebrovascular disorders were the more common neurological complications. The mean age of those with cardiac complications (33.8 years) was much younger than those with neurological complications (49.7 years). There was no notable difference in the gender distribution between these two groups of vaccine recipients. mRNA vaccines (all brands) were associated with almost 90.0% of the cardiac complications, whereas viral vector vaccines were associated with slightly over half (52.6%) of the neurological complications. With regard to the dose, cardiac complications were more common after the second (69.1%), whereas neurological complications were more common after the first dose (63.6%). The majority of the cases had an uncomplicated clinical course. Nevertheless, 5.9% of cases with neurological complications and 2.5% of those with cardiac complications were fatal, underscoring the significance of the consistent surveillance and vigilant monitoring of vaccinated individuals to mitigate these occurrences.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology and Vaccination)
Open AccessArticle
Cost-Effectiveness of Adjuvanted Quadrivalent Influenza Vaccine for Adults over 65 in France
by
Marc Paccalin, Gaëtan Gavazzi, Quentin Berkovitch, Henri Leleu, Romain Moreau, Emanuele Ciglia, Nansa Burlet and Joaquin F. Mould-Quevedo
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 574; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060574 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Background: In France, influenza accounts for an average of over one million consultations with GPs, 20,000 hospitalizations, and 9000 deaths per year, particularly among the over-65s. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of the adjuvanted quadrivalent influenza vaccine (aQIV) compared to standard (SD-QIV) and
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Background: In France, influenza accounts for an average of over one million consultations with GPs, 20,000 hospitalizations, and 9000 deaths per year, particularly among the over-65s. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of the adjuvanted quadrivalent influenza vaccine (aQIV) compared to standard (SD-QIV) and high-dose (HD-QIV) quadrivalent influenza vaccines for individuals aged 65 and older in France. Methods: The age-structured SEIR transmission model, calibrated to simulate a mean influenza season, incorporates a contact matrix to estimate intergroup contact rates. Epidemiological, economic, and utility outcomes are evaluated. Vaccine effectiveness and costs are derived from literature and national insurance data. Quality of life adjustments for influenza attack rates and hospitalizations are applied. Deterministic and probabilistic analyses are also conducted. Results: Compared to SD-QIV, aQIV demonstrates substantial reductions in healthcare utilization and mortality, avoiding 89,485 GP consultations, 2144 hospitalizations, and preventing 1611 deaths. Despite an investment of EUR 110 million, aQIV yields a net saving of EUR 14 million in healthcare spending. Compared to HD-QIV, aQIV saves 62 million euros on vaccination costs. Cost-effectiveness analysis reveals an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of EUR 7062 per QALY. Conclusions: This study highlights the cost-effectiveness of aQIV versus SD-QIV and HD-QIV, preventing influenza cases, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Influenza Virus Vaccines and Vaccination)
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Open AccessArticle
Using Surface Immunogenic Protein as a Carrier Protein to Elicit Protective Antibody to Multiple Serotypes for Candidate Group B Streptococcal Glycan Conjugate Vaccines
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Huiqi Duan, Wenhua Huang, Qingyu Lv, Peng Liu, Qian Li, Decong Kong, Xuyang Sun, Xinran Zhang, Yongqiang Jiang and Shaolong Chen
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 573; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060573 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a life-threatening opportunistic pathogen, particularly in pregnant women, infants, and the elderly. Currently, maternal vaccination is considered the most viable long-term option for preventing GBS mother-to-infant infection, and two polysaccharide conjugate vaccines utilizing CRM197 as a carrier protein
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Group B Streptococcus (GBS) is a life-threatening opportunistic pathogen, particularly in pregnant women, infants, and the elderly. Currently, maternal vaccination is considered the most viable long-term option for preventing GBS mother-to-infant infection, and two polysaccharide conjugate vaccines utilizing CRM197 as a carrier protein have undergone clinical phase II trials. Surface immunogenic protein (Sip), present in all identified serotypes of GBS strains so far, is a protective surface protein of GBS. In this study, the type Ia capsular polysaccharide (CPS) of GBS was utilized as a model to develop candidate antigens for a polysaccharide conjugate vaccine by coupling it with the Sip of GBS and the traditional carrier protein CRM197. Serum analysis from immunized New Zealand rabbits and CD1 mice revealed that there was no significant difference in antibody titers between the Ia-Sip group and Ia-CRM197 group; however, both were significantly higher than those observed in the Ia polysaccharide group. Opsonophagocytosis and passive immune protection results using rabbit serum indicated no significant difference between the Ia-Sip and Ia-CRM197 groups, both outperforming the Ia polysaccharide group. Furthermore, serum from the Ia-Sip group had a cross-protective effect on multiple types of GBS strains. The challenge test results in CD1 mice demonstrated that the Ia-Sip group provided complete protection against lethal doses of bacteria and also showed cross-protection against type III strain. Our study demonstrates for the first time that Ia-Sip is immunogenic and provides serotype-independent protection in glycan conjugate vaccines, which also indicates Sip may serve as an excellent carrier protein for GBS glycan conjugate vaccines and provide cross-protection against multiple GBS strains.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Vaccines against Infectious Diseases)
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Fasting before Intra-Gastric Dosing with Antigen Improves Intestinal Humoral Responses in Syrian Hamsters
by
Liam Wood, Jaime Hughes, Mark Trussell, Anne L. Bishop and Ruth Griffin
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 572; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060572 - 24 May 2024
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Oral vaccines, unlike injected, induce intestinal secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) mimicking our natural defense against gut pathogens. We previously observed sIgA responses after administering the Clostridioides difficile colonisation factor CD0873 orally in enteric capsules to hamsters. Enteric-coated capsules are designed to resist dissolution
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Oral vaccines, unlike injected, induce intestinal secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) mimicking our natural defense against gut pathogens. We previously observed sIgA responses after administering the Clostridioides difficile colonisation factor CD0873 orally in enteric capsules to hamsters. Enteric-coated capsules are designed to resist dissolution in the stomach and disintegrate only at the higher pH of the small intestine. However, the variable responses between animals led us to speculate suboptimal transit of antigens to the small intestine. The rate of gastric emptying is a controlling factor in the passage of oral drugs for subsequent availability in the small intestine for absorption. Whilst in humans, food delays gastric emptying, in rats, capsules can empty quicker from fed stomachs than from fasted. To test in hamsters if fasting improves the delivery of antigens to the small intestine, as inferred from the immune responses generated, 24 animals were dosed intragastrically with enteric capsules containing recombinant CD0873. Twelve hamsters were fasted for 12 h prior to each dose and the other 12 fed. Significantly higher sIgA titres, with significantly greater bacterial-adherence-blocking activity, were detected in small intestinal lavages in the fasted group. We conclude that fasting in hamsters improves intestinal delivery leading to more robust responses.
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COVID-19 Vaccine Motivation and Hesitancy among a Sample of African American, Afro-Caribbean, and African Respondents in the United States
by
Shauna K. Elbers, Denise A. Vaughan and Yordanos M. Tiruneh
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 571; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060571 - 24 May 2024
Abstract
Understanding the motivations and decisions behind COVID-19 vaccine acceptance is crucial for designing targeted public health interventions to address vaccine hesitancy. We conducted a qualitative analysis to explore COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among diverse ethnic subgroups of Black Americans in the United States. This
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Understanding the motivations and decisions behind COVID-19 vaccine acceptance is crucial for designing targeted public health interventions to address vaccine hesitancy. We conducted a qualitative analysis to explore COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among diverse ethnic subgroups of Black Americans in the United States. This study investigates the 2021–2022 responses of 79 African American, Afro-Caribbean, and African respondents over the age of 18 in Washington State and Texas. Respondents were asked “Do you plan to get the COVID-19 vaccination?” Qualitative responses were analyzed by content category and ethnic subgroup. Of the 79 responses, 60 expressed favorable perceptions, 16 expressed unfavorable perceptions, and 3 expressed neutral perceptions. Dominant categories among participants in favor of the vaccine included personal health (26), concern for health of family/or community members (13), and desire to protect others (11). Among the 42 vaccinated African American respondents, the primary motivation was personal health (20). The 12 unvaccinated African American respondents cited fear of side effects as their dominate motivation. Caribbean respondents cited family or elders as motivation for their decision. African respondents were nearly unanimous in taking the vaccine (13/16), citing trust in health care, protecting friends and family, and personal health as reasons. Community and personal relationships were critical decision-making factors in accepting the COVID-19 vaccine, with African Americans having the strongest hesitancy.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vaccination Uptake and Public Health)
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The Milk of Cows Immunized with Trivalent Inactivated Vaccines Provides Broad-Spectrum Passive Protection against Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease in Neonatal Mice
by
Xiaohui Wei, Jing Wu, Wanjun Peng, Xin Chen, Lihong Zhang, Na Rong, Hekai Yang, Gengxin Zhang, Gaoying Zhang, Binbin Zhao and Jiangning Liu
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 570; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060570 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral infection predominantly affecting infants and young children, caused by multiple enteroviruses, including Enterovirus 71 (EV71), Coxsackievirus A16 (CA16), Coxsackievirus A10 (CA10), and Coxsackievirus A6 (CA6). The high pathogenicity of HFMD has garnered significant
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Hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) is a contagious viral infection predominantly affecting infants and young children, caused by multiple enteroviruses, including Enterovirus 71 (EV71), Coxsackievirus A16 (CA16), Coxsackievirus A10 (CA10), and Coxsackievirus A6 (CA6). The high pathogenicity of HFMD has garnered significant attention. Currently, there is no specific treatment or broad-spectrum preventive measure available for HFMD, and existing monovalent vaccines have limited impact on the overall incidence or prevalence of the disease. Consequently, with the emergence of new viral strains driven by vaccine pressure, there is an urgent need to develop strategies for the rapid response and control of new outbreaks. In this study, we demonstrated the broad protective effect of maternal antibodies against three types of HFMD by immunizing mother mice with a trivalent inactivated vaccine targeting EV71, CA16, and CA10, using a neonatal mouse challenge model. Based on the feasibility of maternal antibodies as a form of passive immunization to prevent HFMD, we prepared a multivalent antiviral milk by immunizing dairy cows with the trivalent inactivated vaccine to target multiple HFMD viruses. In the neonatal mouse challenge model, this immunized milk exhibited extensive passive protection against oral infections caused by the three HFMD viruses. Compared to vaccines, this strategy may offer a rapid and broadly applicable approach to providing passive immunity for the prevention of HFMD, particularly in response to the swift emergence and spread of new variants.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Immunotherapy and Vaccine Development for Viral Diseases)
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An Adjuvanted Vaccine-Induced Pathogenesis Following Influenza Virus Infection
by
Shiou-Chih Hsu, Kun-Hsien Lin, Yung-Chieh Tseng, Yang-Yu Cheng, Hsiu-Hua Ma, Ying-Chun Chen, Jia-Tsrong Jan, Chung-Yi Wu and Che Ma
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 569; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060569 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
An incomplete Freund’s adjuvant elicited an overt pathogenesis in vaccinated mice following the intranasal challenge of A/California/07/2009 (H1N1) virus despite the induction of a higher specific antibody titer than other adjuvanted formulations. Aluminum hydroxide adjuvants have not induced any pathogenic signs in a
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An incomplete Freund’s adjuvant elicited an overt pathogenesis in vaccinated mice following the intranasal challenge of A/California/07/2009 (H1N1) virus despite the induction of a higher specific antibody titer than other adjuvanted formulations. Aluminum hydroxide adjuvants have not induced any pathogenic signs in a variety of formulations with glycolipids. A glycolipid, α-galactosyl ceramide, improved a stimulatory effect of distinct adjuvanted formulations on an anti-influenza A antibody response. In contrast to α-galactosyl ceramide, its synthetic analogue C34 was antagonistic toward a stimulatory effect of an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant on a specific antibody response. The aluminum hydroxide adjuvant alone could confer complete vaccine-induced protection against mortality as well as morbidity caused by a lethal challenge of the same strain of an influenza A virus. The research results indicated that adjuvants could reshape immune responses either to improve vaccine-induced immunity or to provoke an unexpected pathogenic consequence. On the basis of these observations, this research connotes the prominence to develop a precision adjuvant for innocuous vaccination aimed at generating a protective immunity without aberrant responses.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Vaccines and Antimicrobial Therapy)
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Reasons for COVID-19 Non-Vaccination from 2021 to 2023 for Adults, Adolescents, and Children
by
Kimberly H. Nguyen, Yingjun Bao, Julie Mortazavi, Laura Corlin and Jennifer D. Allen
Vaccines 2024, 12(6), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines12060568 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
Understanding how attitudes and beliefs about COVID-19 vaccination have changed over time is essential for identifying areas where targeted messaging and interventions can improve vaccination confidence and uptake. Using data from multiple waves of the nationally representative U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey
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Understanding how attitudes and beliefs about COVID-19 vaccination have changed over time is essential for identifying areas where targeted messaging and interventions can improve vaccination confidence and uptake. Using data from multiple waves of the nationally representative U.S. Census Bureau’s Household Pulse Survey collected from January 2021 to May 2023, we assessed reasons for the non-vaccination of adults, adolescents, and children using the Health Belief Model as the framework for understanding behavior. Among unvaccinated adults, perceived vulnerability increased from 11.9% to 44.1%, attitudinal factors/mistrust increased from 28.6% to 53.4%, and lack of cue to action increased from 7.5% to 9.7% from January 2021 to May 2022. On the other hand, safety/efficacy concerns decreased from 74.0% to 60.9%, and logistical barriers to vaccination decreased from 9.1% to 3.4% during the same time period. Regarding reasons for non-vaccination of youth, perceived vulnerability increased from 32.8% to 40.0%, safety/efficacy concerns decreased from 73.9% to 60.4%, and lack of cue to action increased from 10.4% to 13.4% between September 2021 and May 2023. While safety/efficacy concerns and logistic barriers have decreased, increases in perceived vulnerability to COVID-19, mistrust, and lack of cues to action suggest that more efforts are needed to address these barriers to vaccination.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing the Science on Vaccine Hesitancy to Inform Interventions)
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