The influenza vaccines that are offered each winter can only target certain viral strains and are based on forecasts. Thus, last winter, the vaccine, composed of strains of the B, A H1N1 and H3N2 viruses, could not be fully effective because the virus mutated and it is a different strain that caused the epidemic. .
That’s why scientists are working to develop a universal influenza vaccine that would be effective against a very wide range of viruses. A study published in the professional journal Cell, seems to indicate that American researchers are approaching this objective. A team from Rockefeller University in New York suggests that it is possible to exploit a previously unknown mechanism in the immune system to create more effective vaccines against this constantly changing virus.
“Currently, most influenza vaccines are formulated to target a total of three or four viral strains: H1 and H3 influenza A viruses, as well as influenza B virus strains. These strains are selected based on expert forecasts. health care for the next influenza season. But sometimes they are wrong, rendering vaccines ineffective. While the classic influenza vaccine only protects against specific strains, we believe that by including modified antibodies in the vaccine, it may be possible to elicit broad protection against many strains simultaneously, ”said lead author Professor Jeffrey Ravetch.
“The new mechanism we have discovered, by which a vaccine containing sialylated antibodies accelerates the production of protective antibodies, could be harnessed to reduce mortality caused by infections of the virus. seasonal flu“.
So far, the only trials have been on mice. The researchers say they are continuing their work with the goal of developing a universal vaccine that would protect people throughout life.
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