DNA vaccine boosts immune response against Echinococcus in Beagle dogs

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Echinococcus granulosus, known as cystic echinococcosis, is a prominent zoonotic parasitic disease of significant global concern. The definitive hosts serves as the primary reservoir for the transmission of echinococcosis, as well as a main factor in the prevention and control of the disease. Unfortunately, there is currently no commercially available vaccine for these hosts. Nevertheless, DNA vaccines show potential as a feasible strategy for the control and management of parasitic diseases. METHODS: In this study, the EgM123 antigen was selected for its well-documented immunogenic properties to develop a DNA vaccine aimed at combatinginfection in canines. RESULTS: The results showed a marked increase in IgG levels in the group vaccinated with pVAX1-EgM123 DNA compared to the PBS group. Additionally, the cytokines IL-1, IFN-, IL-4, and IL-6 were significantly upregulated in the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine group. Furthermore, in comparison to the PBS control group, the EgM123 DNA vaccine group exhibited a notable 87.85% reduction in worm burden and a 65.00% inhibition in segment development. DISCUSSION: These findings indicate that the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine shows promising immunogenicity, successfully eliciting a targeted immune response in canines. Moreover, it significantly diminishes the worm burden and hinders the progression of tapeworms in the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine group. These findings suggest that the pVAX1-EgM123 DNA vaccine holds promise as a potential candidate vaccine for combatinginfection in dogs.