Description
This research has identified a conserved immunogenic epitope on P. carinii and Streptococcus pneumoniae that is dually recognized by a monoclonal antibody, 4F11. The peptide containing the protective epitope can be utilized to develop a vaccine to prevent or treat disease caused by P. carnii or S. pneumoniae. Recent work has demonstrated that immunization with a recombinant protein containing the antigen produces an antibody response that recognizes P. carinii antigens in a mouse model. Additionally, the 4F11 antibody recognizing the epitope can be used for passive immunization against these infections. Pneumocystis carinii is a life-threatening cause of pneumonitis among patients who are immunocompromised because of malignancies, AIDS, or congenital immunodeficiency disorders. P. carinii pneumonia also occurs in children who are immunocompromised on the basis of malnutrition; thus the global significance of P. carinii pneumonia is potentially great. Although there are drug treatments for P. carinii pneumonia, poor compliance, adverse side effects, and recurrent infections remain a problem and warrant the development of new treatments and strategies to prevent this disease.
Feb. 1, 2012
B5, No.1600, North Guoquan Rd, Yangpu, Shanghai
info@yintrust.com
021-65679356
Premium