Abstract
Vaccination with allergen-encoding DNA represents a promising approach for the treatment of allergic diseases. In a mouse model of type I allergy, we analyzed the ability of biolistic transfection to inhibit antigen-specific IgE production and to modulate TH2 responses. BALB/c mice were vaccinated by means of gene gun-mediated DNA immunization with plasmid vector pCMV-betaGal, encoding beta-galactosidase as a model allergen. Subsequently, mice were immunized by means of repeated intraperitoneal injection of beta-galactosidase adsorbed to the adjuvant aluminum hydroxide. Development of IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a antibody titers during the course of immunization was followed, and anaphylactic potential of sera was determined by using RBL-2H3 degranulation assay. Spleen cells of vaccinated mice and unvaccinated control animals were stimulated in vitro to analyze cytokine production and induction of CD8 + effector T cells. Gene gun-mediated DNA immunization with pCMV-betaGal very efficiently prevented IgE antibody production on a long-term basis. Concomitantly, IgG1 antibody levels in vaccinated mice were strongly reduced, whereas IgG2a antibody production was increased. Analysis of cytokine profiles indicated immune deviation from a TH2-biased response in control mice toward a mixed TH1/TH2 response in vaccinated mice. In addition, substantial numbers of IFN-gamma-producing CD8 + effector T cells were found in vaccinated mice. Gene gun-mediated DNA vaccination prevents the induction of long-lasting IgE antibody production.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
