Development of effective RSV vaccine for older individuals using adjuvanted purified protein F.
Importance of understanding RSV replication to predict antigenic variants and vaccine-induced immune pressure.
Deep dives
RSV Vaccine Development
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine has historically been challenging to develop due to past issues with vaccine-induced worsened disease outcomes. Recent advances in understanding the structural basis of RSV led to the development of a vaccine that showed significant protection in a phase 3 trial for individuals over 65, reducing the risk of severe RSV-associated lower respiratory tract disease by 94.1%. The vaccine uses an adjuvanted purified protein F from the virus, and the package insert specifies that it's safe for individuals with latex allergies.
Antigenic Variants of RSV
Predicting the emergence of antigenic variants of RSV is challenging due to limited understanding of RSV replication and evolution. Since the vaccine targets specific RSV proteins, any mutations that may arise would likely be in response to immune pressure from natural infection rather than vaccine-induced selective pressure.
Art Competition Celebrating Immunology
An art competition for middle school and high school students organized by the La Jolla Institute for Immunology allows students to express immunology-related themes through art. Winning entries include creative interpretations of milestone vaccine history, pandemic public health policies, and expressive depictions of themes like red respiratory droplets symbolizing viral spread. The competition showcases the creativity and engagement of the next generation in understanding immunology and infectious diseases.