Novel conjugate vaccine for the prevention of pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in cystic fibrosis patients

The published literature evaluating the safety and immunogenicity of the polyvalent O-polysaccharide-toxin A conjugate vaccine is reviewed. Primary immunization followed by annual booster significantly reduced the incidence of chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections (particularly mucoid phenotype strains) and extended time to infection. The findings reflected lower frequency of P. aeruginosa in sputum/throat cultures and preservation of lung function. Additionally, studies indicated higher binding affinity of vaccine-induced anti-lipopolysaccharide (LPS) compared with infection-induced anti-LPS serum immunoglobulin G antibodies, suggesting protective capacity. P. aeruginosa prophylaxis with the conjugate vaccine in cystic fibrosis patients has proved safe and useful in preventing and delaying chronic lung infection.