Comparative immunogenicity studies on Epstein-Barr virus membrane antigen (MA) gp340 with novel adjuvants in mice, rabbits, and cotton-top tamarins.

The effectiveness of immunisation of mice, rabbits, and cotton-top tamarins with small amounts of EB virus MA glycoprotein gp340 , incorporated into artificial liposomes, has been compared using various routes of injection with or without additional adjuvants. Liposomes containing gp340 gave specific high titre antibodies after i.p. or i.v. administration, and the addition of lipid A to the liposomes resulted in a significant enhancement of the response. Antibodies generated by the above procedure were virus neutralising and bound gp340 specifically. These findings indicate an advantageous approach for use with a prototype vaccine for the prevention of EB virus infection.