Question

Reverse vaccinology identifies antigens that are very specific to the pathogen. These different antigens can then be synthesized and individually tested for their potential in creating immunity and can thus be used as vaccines. Identify DNA technologies and their purposes in the identification and production of these antigens for vaccine use, and describe the process of making individual antigens in large quantities.

Answer 1

Antigens can be identified by -

• Mass Spectrometry Cytometry (using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS))
• Antigenome Technology with the help of antibodies from human serum ( to identify antigenic protein epitopes from bacterial pathogens)
• Cell Therapy using Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes

Antigens can be produced in high yield by the following methods -

• Traditional Method: The tranditional method uses fertilized embryonic eggs for culturing the virus for vaccine production. This method takes around four months to prepare a batch of vaccines.
• Mammalian Cell-Based Method: In this method mammalian cell cultures are used to culture the virus for vaccines. This is an easy and fast method that also helps in amplifying the production.
• Investigational Methods: These make use of plant, insect cell or bacteria cultures and give a higher yield of antigens.

Once these methods are complete, the antigens are isolated, purified, and then packed (in some types, along with adjuvant) for vaccination.