Human respiratory syncytial virus nucleoprotein (hRSV-N) (hRSV-N)

The human respiratory syncytial virus nucleoprotein (hRSV-N) is a highly conserved structural protein that plays a vital role in the viral life cycle by encapsulating the genomic RNA into a ribonuclease-resistant nucleocapsid, which serves as a template for transcription and replication (PubMed: 15507656). In the development of the rBCG-N-hRSV vaccine, this protein is expressed by a recombinant Mycobacterium bovis BCG strain to function as a key antigenic target for the immune system (PubMed: 28438886). This strategy utilizes the BCG vector's innate ability to promote a Th1-polarized immune response, characterized by the production of interferon-gamma and the activation of cytotoxic T cells, which are essential for effective viral clearance (PubMed: 20624749). By targeting the N protein rather than the surface glycoproteins, the vaccine aims to avoid the Th2-biased immune responses that historically led to vaccine-enhanced respiratory disease (ERD) in previous RSV vaccine trials. Preclinical studies have demonstrated that this approach provides significant protection against RSV-induced lung inflammation and viral load in animal models. Furthermore, the use of the BCG platform potentially offers concurrent protection against tuberculosis, making it a versatile tool for pediatric immunization.

Other names

RSV NucleoproteinRSV N proteinNucleocapsid proteinrBCG-N-hRSV antigen

The rBCG-N-hRSV vaccine candidate expresses the hRSV nucleoprotein within a Mycobacterium bovis BCG vector to induce a Th1-biased immune response, promoting the activity of IFN-gamma-producing T cells and neutralizing antibodies to prevent RSV infection and lung pathology (PubMed: 24501213).