Antigenic properties of vaccinia virus and of the virus recombinant strains expressing heterologous genes.

Immunologic properties of vaccinia virus (VV), strain LIPV, and VV recombinant strains containing the gene of hepatitis B virus surface antigen and the TK gene of herpes simplex virus (HSV) have been studied. Production of antibodies against the majority of VV structural proteins, including nucleocapsid internal proteins was demonstrated in rabbits. Insertion of heterologous genes into the VV genome was without effect on the spectrum of antibodies produced against VV virion proteins. The data obtained in volunteers indicate that not only virus-neutralizing antibodies but also antibodies against most VV structural proteins are preserved in humans over many years. Reimmunization of volunteers with VV recombinant stimulates synthesis of antibodies against virion proteins whereas the spectrum of antibodies remains unchanged. Humans and rabbits did not differ in the spectrum of antibodies to VV virion proteins.