Priming protective mhc class i-restricted t cell immunity by novel vaccine delivery strategies that target alternative epitope repertoires

Objective

Specific stimulation of MHC class I-restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) responses is a key objective for vaccines against intracellular infections. Epitope repertoires (ER) recognized by CTL are generated by processing antigen in proteasome/TAP-dependent (ER^prot) and alternative proteasome/ TAP-independent (ER^alt) pathways. Many new vaccination strategies prime CTL to alternatively pro-cessed antigens. The consortium targets the analysis of alternative processing of vaccine-relevant antigens from HCV, HBV and malaria plasmodia resulting in peptides for human/murine MHC class I presentation. It will be tested if CTL populations specific for the ER^alt alone, or in combination with CTL recognizing the ER^prot are associated with protection against natural human HBV, HCV and plasmodium infections. The insight into alternative processing will be used to design and test optimised safe vaccines that induce broad CTL immunity also to the ER^alt.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-2. - Key action Control of Infectious Diseases

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

UNIVERSITY OF ULM

Address

Helmholtzstrasse 8/1
89081 Ulm
Germany

Participants (3)

INSTITUT NATIONAL DE LA SANTE ET DE LA RECHERCHE MEDICALE

France

Address

161,Rue De Sfvres 161
75743 Paris

UNIVERSITY OF DUNDEE

United Kingdom

Address

Msi/wtb Complex, Dow Street
DD1 5EH Dundee

UNIVERSITY OF LAUSANE

Switzerland

Address

155,Chemin Des Boveresses 155
1066 Epalinges