Advances in neuraminidase-based influenza vaccines

Abstract

The main antigens in present seasonal influenza vaccines include two important influenza virus surface glycoproteins, hemagglutinin and neuraminidase (NA). Studies have confirmed that, although NA inhibiting antibodies may not prevent virus infection, they can effectively curb virus spreading, which has gained attention for NA-based vaccines. In addition, the relative conservativity of NA makes it a potential universal vaccine target. Many different forms of NA-based vaccines, such as DNA vaccine, virus-like particle vaccine, vector vaccine, recombinant subunit vaccine, and vaccines with other influenza virus proteins, have demonstrated ability to induce cross protection in animal models. This article reviews studies published recently on NA-based influenza vaccines. Key words: Influenza A virus; Influenza B virus; Influenza vaccines; Neuraminidase; Cross protection