Cell Derived Virus-Like Particles (VLP) in Future Vaccine Development

Abstract

Traditionally, viral vaccines have been based on inactivated or live attenuated viruses. While in general, they are highly effective, in some cases they fail to provide adequate immunogenicity, safety or can even cause adverse events. In the case of live attenuated vaccines, achieving a stable optimally attenuated virus is often difficult and there is the potential for reversion. Transmission to the immunocompromised individuals is an additional concern. Inactivated vaccines run the risk of inducing enhanced disease. Single proteins, including single protein nano-particle vaccine attempts have not been successful to date for human use. Various other ways of making vaccines have also been attempted by engineering the virus.

Virus-like particles (VLP) show much promise as future vaccines. VLP vaccines such as HPV are already available commercially. These VLPs are safe because they are devoid of any viral genetic material and therefore not infectious.