Host adaptive immune system (via Shigella IpaB, IpaC, and detoxified LPS)

The host adaptive immune system serves as the therapeutic target for immunization strategies against Shigella, the primary cause of bacillary dysentery worldwide. This specific target profile refers to the stimulation of the immune system using a macromolecular complex known as Invaplex, which integrates Shigella invasion plasmid antigens B (IpaB) and C (IpaC) with detoxified lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (Turbyfill et al., 2000, PubMed: 10843680). IpaB and IpaC are essential components of the bacterial Type III Secretion System (T3SS) required for host cell invasion, making them highly conserved and effective antigens for broad-spectrum protection (Oaks & Turbyfill, 2006, PubMed: 16564055). The detoxified LPS in this complex acts as both a primary surface antigen and a natural adjuvant, enhancing the overall immunogenicity of the protein subunits. When administered, typically via mucosal or parenteral routes, the complex facilitates the presentation of these antigens to B and T cells, eliciting robust mucosal IgA and systemic IgG responses to prevent bacterial colonization and epithelial invasion (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05021003). This approach is designed to overcome the limitations of traditional O-antigen-based vaccines by targeting the conserved functional machinery of the pathogen.

Other names

Adaptive immune systemShigella Invaplex targetMucosal immune systemHost immune response to Shigella antigens

Induction of protective mucosal and systemic immunity through the presentation of conserved Shigella virulence factors (IpaB, IpaC) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to host B and T cells.