Priming by a novel universal influenza vaccine (Multimeric-001)-a gateway for improving immune response in the elderly population.

Background: A new vaccine, "Multimeric-001" (M-001) has been recently developed, containing conserved, common linear influenza epitopes that activate both cellular and humoral arms of the immune system against a wide variety of influenza A and B strains. Apart from its direct action, M-001 is an attractive candidate for priming immune responses to seasonal influenza vaccine for the elderly population. The current clinical study was designed to assess M-001's standalone and priming action in participants over 65 years old.

Safety and immunogenicity of multimeric-001--a novel universal influenza vaccine.

Objective: A new vaccine, Multimeric-001, containing conserved linear epitopes from the HA, NP, and M1 proteins of influenza type A and type B strains was designed to protect against seasonal and pandemic influenza virus strains, regardless of mutations. We assessed its safety and tolerability and characterized humoral and cellular immune responses elicited by its administration.

Methods: Sixty healthy volunteers received either 250 or 500 μg injections, with or without adjuvant (Montanide ISA 51VG), or matching placebo.