Abstract
Malaria sexual stage and mosquito transmission-blocking vaccines (SSM-TBV) have recently gained prominence as a necessary tool for malaria eradication. SSM-TBVs are unique in that, with the exception of parasite gametocyte antigens, they primarily target parasite or mosquito midgut surface antigens expressed only inside the mosquito. As such, the primary perceived limitation of SSM-TBVs is that the absence of natural boosting following immunization will limit its efficacy, since the antigens are never presented to the human immune system. An ideal, safe SSM-TBV formulation must overcome this limitation. We provide a focused evaluation of relevant nano-/microparticle technologies that can be applied toward the development of leading SSM-TBV candidates, and data from a proof-of-concept study demonstrating that a single inoculation and controlled release of antigen in mice, can elicit long-lasting protective antibody titers. We conclude by identifying the remaining critical gaps in knowledge and opportunities for moving SSM-TBVs to the field.
Highlights
The malaria eradication research agenda has reemphasized the need for effective sexual stage and mosquito transmission-blocking vaccines (SSM-TBV) [1], which prevents malaria parasite development in its mosquito vector and the subsequent cascade of secondary infections [2,3,4,5]
Using bovine serum albumin (BSA) as a model antigen, we have shown that the amount of antigen released from the biodegradable microparticle (BMP) can be controlled by loading level as shown in Fig. (1C)
The immunoglobulin subtypes (IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2b) generated in the group that received a single immunization of APN1-BMPs/alum were similar to that elicited by the APN1-alum
Summary
The malaria eradication research agenda has reemphasized the need for effective sexual stage and mosquito transmission-blocking vaccines (SSM-TBV) [1], which prevents malaria parasite development in its mosquito vector and the subsequent cascade of secondary infections [2,3,4,5]. The minimum objective of immunization is to induce high titer antibodies sustainable for at least one transmission season (~3-6 months), but preferably for 2 years. Achieving this minimum goal would theoretically drive the case reproductive rate, (R0)
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