Multiple vaccine antigens

The term "multiple vaccine antigens" refers to the use of two or more distinct molecular antigens—such as proteins, polysaccharides, or conjugates thereof—from one or several pathogens in a single vaccine formulation[3][7]. Such vaccines can be "multivalent" (targeting several serotypes or strains of one pathogen) or "multipathogen" (combining antigens from different pathogens to provide protection against multiple diseases)[3]. The rationale is to broaden the immune response, increase efficacy, and potentially simplify immunization schedules. Mechanistically, antigens stimulate B cells and T cells, leading to the production of antibodies and the development of immunological memory. However, vaccine responses to multiple antigens can be affected by factors such as immunodominance, antigenic competition, or differences in individual immune system responsiveness, which may alter the magnitude or breadth of protection[5][6]. Because "multiple vaccine antigens" is not a single molecule or receptor, but rather a vaccine design approach, it is not itself a therapeutic target.

Other names

multivalent vaccine antigenpolyvalent vaccine antigenmulti-antigen vaccinemultiple immunogen vaccineantigen cocktail

Generate a protective immune response (humoral and/or cellular) by presenting multiple antigens from one or more pathogens to the immune system, often to expand breadth of protection or enable coverage against multiple strains or diseases[3][5][7][8].