Protective efficiency of dendrosomes as novel nano-sized adjuvants for DNA vaccination against birch pollen allergy

We evaluated the use of a novel gene porter (Den123-a nontoxic self-assembled dendritic spheroidal nanoparticle made of biodegradable monomers), aiming to enhance and improve the desired immune response in protection from allergy. Footpad DNA immunization in Balb/c mice was done three times using the Bet v 1a gene with or without Den123 with 2-week intervals followed by sensitization with rBetv1 (5 μg) in alum twice in a weekly interval. Different doses of pCMV-Betv1 were used (10 μg and 100 μg). The protective role of different formulations was evaluated by measuring the IgG1, IgG2a and IgE antibody production, cytokine release of isolated splenocytes and β-hexosaminidase release from the RBL cells. Higher and increasing ratios of IgG2a/IgG1 were seen in mice which received plasmids in combination with Den123. Den123 and DNA vaccine synergistically enhanced the Interferon gamma released from splenocytes. In the presence of Den123, IgE inhibition was independent of the dose and type of the injected DNA. All DNA-pre-immunized mice demonstrated low basophil degranulation. It is therefore concluded that administration of the DNA entrapped in Den123 nanoparticles results in sustained release of plasmids, Th1/Th2 balanced immune response with promising IgE inhibition. Also higher amounts of DNA contributed to stronger Th1 response.