T-CELL RESPONSES GENERATED BY VACCINE CANDIDATES FOR EASTERN EQUINE ENCEPHALITIS VIRUS

Abstract

Eastern equine encephalitis virus (EEEV) is known to be among the most pathogenic virus to horses, with a mortality rate approaching 90%, with spill-over infections in human populations reaching mortality rates of 70%. Its ease of production and low infectious dose make EEEV a potential biological threat agent. However, no licensed vaccine is available for use in humans. Only a suboptimal vaccine is available for veterinary use. The DNA and VRP platforms are leading Department of Defense vaccine candidates. While both vaccine candidates have been shown to generate strong B-cell responses, T-cell responses have not been characterized. Cytokines TNFa and IFNy generated by memory T-cells are measurable parameters that can be examined to assess potential correlates of protection induced by vaccine candidates. Establishing T-cell cytokine profiles along with EEEV-specific total serum antibodies and neutralizing antibodies as correlates of protection may assist in vaccine development and down-selection of the vaccine candidates.