USA As Represented by Secretary of the Navy

Sofia A Casares

Thomas L Richie

Teodor D Brumeanu

The present invention relates to recombinant chimeric molecules that are capable of providing T cell receptor (TCR) interaction and costimulation for activation and differentiation of pathogen-specific T cells toward effector T helper 1 (Th1) or T helper 2 (Th2) cells. The chimera may capable of elicit antibodies against pathogen-specific B cell epitope(s). The present invention also relates method of using these chimeric molecules in whole or as a component of a vaccine.

TH1/TH2 polarizing vaccines

Provided is a transgenic animal model for testing immunogenicity and protective efficacy of human vaccines and the method for generating such a multitransgenic animal. Also disclosed are methods for screening compositions for human vaccine development. More specifically, a mouse model capable of expressing human leukocyte antigen DR4, and human costimulatory molecules (CD80) upon infusion of human HLA-matched hematopoietic stem cells, which can develop into a functional human immune system is provided.

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Potomac, MD, United States of America

Sofia A Casares