IMMUNOLOGICAL RESPONSE POTENTIATION PROCESS

摘要

An immunological response potentiation process is disclosed for synthetic or genetically engineered antigens having low immunogenicity. The antigen is embedded into biodegradable microparticles, these antigen-loaded microparticles are dispersed in a biodegradable medium which triggers when it is parenterally administered a potentiated antibody, TH-lymphocyte and Tclymphocyte response, as compared to an aqueous antigen solution. The extent of immunological potentiation is at least comparable with that attained by IFA compositions. Linear B-TH-cell epitopes, linear Tc-cell epitopes, dimers and multimers of said epitopes, as well as their mixtures, are used as low immunogenicity antigens. The microparticles are based on biodegradable biopolymers such as polyester, polyanhydride, polyorthoester. By mixing microparticles with different wettabilities, swellabilities, release and biodegradation times, the most intense and longest immunological potentiation is achieved. This process is useful for immunising human beings and animals against diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, protozoa or tumour cells.