Researchers find novel way to boost immune response to vaccines

A new study suggests the chemical and spatial organization of the ingredients of the adjuvant – or booster agent – that is included in some vaccines can make a difference to the strength of the immune response. The study, from the University of California-Irvine, is published in the journal ACS Central Science. Some vaccines use a weakened or inactive version of the whole pathogen – for example, the flu vaccine – others use just a segment of the pathogen, such as a key protein or molecule (examples include vaccines for hepatitis B and meningitis). This second type is known as an antigen-based vaccine. When the vaccine uses the whole pathogen, the immune system response is strong and activates immune system “watchmen” proteins – the toll-like receptors (TLRs). Antigen-based vaccines do not trigger a strong immune response and produce fewer side effects. To enhance their effectiveness, vaccine developers usually add a boosting agent – an...