Synthetic B- and T-cell epitope peptides of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus with Gp96 as adjuvant induced humoral and cell-mediated immunity

► Two BCEs and seven TCEs are synthesized as epitope-based peptide-vaccine of PRRSV. ► We use the N terminal 22-355 aa of porcine gp96 (Gp96N) as the adjuvant. ► TCE-peptides can induce strong cellular immune responses and Gp96N can enhance it. ► Gp96N could improve innate and adaptive immunity with Th1 biased immune response. ► This vaccine can partly alleviate symptoms caused by HP-PRRSV challenge.