A recent PLoS Pathogens study evaluates the efficacy of a newly developed live-attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV) protocol in eliciting immune responses in a porcine animal model. Study: Evaluation of a novel intramuscular prime/intranasal boost vaccination strategy against influenza in the pig model. Image Credit: ezps / Shutterstock.
com Live-attenuated influenza vaccines against the influenza virus LAIVs induce a local immune response directed against several viral antigens. Hemagglutinin (HA), a specific type of immunoglobulin A (IgA) secreted into the respiratory tract, can block the virus at its point of entry and prevent its spread. Unlike traditional influenza vaccines, LAIVs do not require an adjuvant and provide immunity for longer durations.
However, a key challenge regarding LAIV development is adequate replicative capacity, which could lead to over-attenuation of the virus, which subsequently prevents the ability to generate a sustained immune response. Comparatively, an insufficiently attenuated vaccine could lead to viral shedding from the upper respiratory tract, thereby increasing the risk of the emergence of more virulent viruses. Thus, finding an appropriate balance between achieving sufficient immunogenicity while ensuring the safety of this vaccination approach is crucial.
About this study To date, several LAIVs have been developed. For example, LAIVs based on cold-adapted viruses are recommended for individuals between the ages of two and 49. Other LAIV .