Serotype specificity of recombinant fusion protein containing domain III and capsid protein of dengue virus 2

Recombinant fusion protein containing domain III of the dengue envelope protein fused to capsid protein from dengue 2 virus was immunogenic and conferred protection in mice against lethal challenge in previously report. Here, the antigenic specificity of this recombinant protein using anti-dengue antibodies from mice and humans and the cross-reactive humoral and cellular response induced in immunized mice were evaluated. The homologous anti-dengue antibodies showed a higher reactivity to the recombinant protein compared to the wide cross-reactivity observed for viral antigen as determined by ELISA. The IgG anti-dengue and functional antibodies, induced by the recombinant proteins in mice, were highly serotype specific by ELISA, hemaglutination inhibition and plaque reduction neutralizing tests. Accordingly, the cellular immune response determined by the IFNγ and TNFα secretion, was serotype specific. The specificity of serotype associated to this recombinant protein in addition to its high antigenicity, immunogenicity and protecting capacity suggest its advantage as a possible functional and safe vaccine candidate against dengue in a future tetravalent formulation.

► We determined the serotype specificity of domain III-capsid recombinant protein. ► The antigenicity and the cross reactivity of immune response in mice was studied. ► The response is specific, so ADE and cross reactive T cells response are avoided. ► We conclude that this protein is a candidate potentially safe.