Recombinant haemagglutinin protein of highly pathogenic avian influenza A (H5N1) virus expressed in Pichia pastoris elicits a neutralizing antibody response in mice

► The haemagglutinin of highly pathogenic avian influenza was cloned into Pichia sp. ► The antigen was expressed, purified and the haemagglutination property was analysed. ► The recombinant haemagglutinin was found to elicit neutralizing antibodies in mice. ► This method of vaccine manufacturing in Pichia pastoris may be cheaper and quicker. ► This method will help to produce vaccines against an avian influenza pandemic.