One-shot sustained release nanoparticle vaccines (VAC13P.1133)

Abstract

Abstract Sustained release of vaccines over an extended period of time may reduce or negate the need for multiple vaccinations (boosters) and also effectively enhance the immunogenicity of subunit vaccines. We have investigated the physcial, chemical and immunological properties of polymeric thermogelling formulations loaded with nanoparticulate protein and peptide based vaccines. The formulations were developed to be free-flowing liquids at room temperature and to form stable gels at body temperature. The vaccine components were loaded into nanoparticles before incorporation into the polymers in order to achieve synchronous release of antigen and adjuvant. The ability of the vaccines to stimulate long lived cellular and humoral responses after a single dose of antigen was investigated in mice. A single dose of formulations could induce detectable responses 50 days post immunisation and could protect mice in a tumor challenge model.