Developing an anti-Campylobacter jejunivaccine

Abstract

The proteomics era allows for the definition of biological organisms at the protein level, offering new opportunities for delimiting the self- and non-self boundaries between microbes and the human host. Here, we apply proteomics to design a vaccine against the major pathogenic factor of Campylobacter jejuni, i.e. cytolethal distending toxin (CDT). We used the scientific rationale that only peptide sequences not represented in the host proteome have the potential to evoke powerful, non-cross-reactive immune responses, thereby guaranteeing effectiveness and safety.

Evidence for a vast peptide overlap between West Nile virus and human proteomes

“…Finally, the present study might contribute to open a line of research addressing the still unanswered question or viral escape from immunosurveillance . As already advocated it is likely that the high level of peptide sharing between microbial organisms and the human host induces an immunotolerant status that obstacles immune reaction against infectious agents. In conclusion, the findings presented here may be of help for a more thorough dissection of the virus‐host relationships.…”

Peptide Sharing between Bordetella Pertussis Proteome and Human Sudden Death Proteins: A Hypothesis for a Causal Link

“…At the same time, the present data, together with other reports from this lab [74][75][76][77][78], offer new perspectives for developing safe (immuno)therapeutic tools [79,80]. Indeed, peptide-based vaccines and therapeutic approaches that selectively exclude crucial peptide sharing will possess the required antimicrobial efficacy without the harmful potential to trigger self autoantigens.…”

A peptide talk between JC virus and the human host: from silent infection to autoimmunity

“…More in general, this study synthesizes a methodological approach that might guarantee exemption from collateral adverse cross-reactions and render practicable antimicrobial global vaccination campaigns. (58,82,(86)(87)(88) …”