Protection against live rotavirus challenge in mice induced by parenteral and mucosal delivery of VP6 subunit rotavirus vaccine

TL;DR

A new non-live rotavirus vaccine provides strong protection in mice, whether given through injection or nasal delivery.

Contribution

A combined rotavirus-norovirus vaccine candidate is developed and shown to induce protection via multiple delivery routes.

Findings

At least 65% protection against rotavirus shedding was observed in mice regardless of delivery route.

Post-challenge serum VP6-specific IgA titers correlated with protection levels.

Abstract

Live oral rotavirus (RV) vaccines are part of routine childhood immunization but are associated with adverse effects, particularly intussusception. We have developed a non-live combined RV – norovirus (NoV) vaccine candidate consisting of human RV inner-capsid rVP6 protein and NoV virus-like particles. To determine the effect of delivery route on induction of VP6-specific protective immunity, BALB/c mice were administered a vaccine containing RV rVP6 intramuscularly, intranasally or a combination of both, and challenged with murine RV. At least 65 % protection against RV shedding was observed regardless of delivery route. The levels of post-challenge serum VP6-specific IgA titers correlated with protection.

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