Identification of immunogenic outer membrane vesicle vaccine antigen components using a meningococcal protein microarray.

Outer membrane vesicle (OMV)-based vaccines have been employed worldwide in response to epidemic meningococcal disease outbreaks caused by Neisseria meningitidis. The complex composition of OMVs raises challenges in the identification of antigens which contribute to a protective immune response. Here, we measured total IgG antibody binding profiles to a dedicated antigen microarray using human sera from an open-label Phase II trial (NCT00962624) of 4CMenB (Bexsero), a licensed vaccine containing an OMV component.

Tackling immunosuppression by Neisseria gonorrhoeae to facilitate vaccine design.

Gonorrhoea, caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a common sexually transmitted infection. Increasing multi-drug resistance and the impact of asymptomatic infections on sexual and reproductive health underline the need for an effective gonococcal vaccine. Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from Neisseria meningitidis induce modest cross-protection against gonococcal infection.

Profiling IgG and IgA antibody responses during vaccination and infection in a high-risk gonorrhoea population.

Development of a vaccine against gonorrhoea is a global priority, driven by the rise in antibiotic resistance. Although Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Ng) infection does not induce substantial protective immunity, highly exposed individuals may develop immunity against re-infection with the same strain. Retrospective epidemiological studies have shown that vaccines containing Neisseria meningitidis (Nm) outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) provide a degree of cross-protection against Ng infection.