Advancements in the development of subunit influenza vaccines

Microbes Infect. 2015 Feb;17(2):123-34. doi: 10.1016/j.micinf.2014.12.006. Epub 2014 Dec 18.

Abstract

The ongoing threat of influenza epidemics and pandemics has emphasized the importance of developing safe and effective vaccines against infections from divergent influenza viruses. In this review, we first introduce the structure and life cycle of influenza A viruses, describing major influenza A virus-caused pandemics. We then compare different types of influenza vaccines and discuss current advancements in the development of subunit influenza vaccines, particularly those based on nucleoprotein (NP), extracellular domain of matrix protein 2 (M2e) and hemagglutinin (HA) proteins. We also illustrate potential strategies for improving the efficacy of subunit influenza vaccines.

Keywords: Hemagglutinin; Influenza A virus; Matrix protein; Nucleoprotein; Subunit vaccines.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Influenza A virus / immunology
  • Influenza A virus / pathogenicity
  • Influenza A virus / physiology
  • Influenza Vaccines / genetics*
  • Influenza Vaccines / immunology
  • Influenza Vaccines / therapeutic use
  • Vaccines, Subunit / genetics
  • Vaccines, Subunit / immunology

Substances

  • Influenza Vaccines
  • Vaccines, Subunit