Multiple antigen peptides (MAPs) as candidate vaccines against malaria. |
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Authors: | A Pessi E Bianchi L Chiappinelli F Bonelli C Tougne P H Lambert G Del Giudice |
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Institution: | Peptide Synthesis Unit, SCLAVO SpA, Monterotondo, Rome, Italy. |
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Abstract: | Multiple Antigen Peptides (MAPs), branched molecules where multiple copies of a desired antigenic sequence are assembled on a small peptide core, have been recently described as an alternative approach to the synthesis of high molecular weight immunogens. In comparison with conventional peptide-carrier conjugates, the MAPs show several advantages, including chemical unambiguity and ease of synthesis. A MAP based on the sequence of the repetitive domain of P. malariae sporozoites was immunogenic in a large number of mouse strains. When covalently linked to the corresponding sequence of the P. falciparum circumsporozoite protein, NANP]40, the resulting conjugate showed the properties of a multivalent vaccine, overcoming the severe genetic restriction of the NANP] sequence. A second generation of MAPs including both sequences, with more desirable chemical properties, was equally effective. These compounds represent a promising step towards the development of synthetic, multivalent peptide vaccines against human malaria. |
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