Liposomes to Induce Potent Humorale Responses to T-Independent Antigens

Abstract

When liposomes are used to present haptens and T-independent antigens to the immune system the response is primarily of the IgM type. This response can be switched to a potent IgG type by the incorporation within the liposomal structure of either exogenous T-epitopes, immunostimulants, or both.

The capability of liposomes to co-present separate B-and T-epitopes and immunostimulants, without the necessity for covalent conjugation, thus makes them ideal candidates as carriers for vaccines where the immune response is limited to recognition of T-epitopes within the antigen.