Merck + Co., Inc.

Robert D Keys

William L McClements

Margaret A Liu

Marcy E Armstrong

John A Lewis

Genes encoding herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) proteins were cloned into eukaryotic expression vectors to express the encoded proteins in mammalian muscle cells in vivo. Animals were immunized by injection of these DNA constructs, termed polynucleotide vaccines or PNV, into their muscles. In a DNA titration, it was found that a single immunization of &#x2267;0.5 &#x3bc;g of (one) PNV, gave &#x3e;90% seroconversion by ten weeks post immunization. Immune antisera neutralized both HSV-2 and HSV-1 in cell culture. When animals were challenged with HSV-2, significant (p&#x3c;0.001) protection from lethal infection was achieved following PNV vaccination. DNA constructs may be full-length, truncated and/or mutated forms and may be delivered along or in combination in order to optimize immunization and protection from HSV infection.

Growing community of inventors

Norristown, PA, United States of America

Robert D Keys