Immunogenicity of lyophilized recombinant adenovirus-based vaccine expressing HIV-1 gagpol in mice

Objective. To evaluate the stability and immunogenicity of lyophilized recombinant adenovirus-based vaccine expressing HIV-1 gagpol (Ad-gagpol vaccine). Methods. Screening the optimal novel protector excipient according to the appearance, virus titer and thermostability of the lyophilized Ad-gagpol vaccine. Western blot analysis and IFN-gamma Elispot assay were used to detect the immunogenicity of lyophilized Ad-gagpol vaccine in mice. Results. Optimal protector excipient and buffer system of lyophilized Ad-based vaccine were identified. It was found to be fairly stable following lengthy exposure to higher temperature. The mice which administered lyophilized Ad-gagpol vaccine produced indistinguishable antibody titer and IFN-gamma ELISPOT level compared with liquid Ad-gagpol vaccine group (P > 0.05). Conclusion. Lyophilized Ad-gagpol vaccine can induce high immunogenicity in mice. The protector containing human serum albumin, trehalose, mannitol, dextran and sucrose was suitable for lyophilized Ad-gagpol vaccine. [Life Science Journal. 2009; 6(1): 13-17] (ISSN: 1097-8135).