Abstract
Immune stimulating complexes (ISCOMs) are lipid-based particles that have shown potential as adjuvants and carriers for antigens aiming at prophylactic or therapeutic vaccination upon injection as well as via mucosal and cutaneous administration. Both cellular and humoral immune responses have been reported after vaccination with antigens using ISCOM adjuvants, and some are in clinical trials. The adjuvant particles are formed by self-assembly of phospholipid, saponin, and cholesterol at well-defined ratios from mixtures of the components. In aqueous dispersion, they appear as cage-like structures with a hollow center and approximately 40–60 nm in size. The present chapter discusses state-of-the-art with regards to formulation design, characterization, and assessment of the mechanisms of action for ISCOMs with examples from our own research, along with addressing the different routes of administration referring to the clinical status of ISCOMs as adjuvants. The future perspectives of using ISCOMs as vaccine adjuvants are presented.
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