A Recombinant Rabies Virus Chimera Expressing the DC-Targeting Molecular MAB2560 Shows Enhanced Vaccine Immunogenicity Through Activation of Dendritic Cells

 Rabies is an important zoonotic disease caused by the virus from order Mononegavirales, family Rhabdoviridae, rabies virus (RABV). The mortality rate of rabies cases is nearly 100% in animals and humans, making it a serious threat to global health. There is no effective medications or therapies for rabies, and the best method to preventing and controlling the rabies is through vaccination. Recombinant rabies virus, rCVS11-MAB2560 was constructed from RABV CVS11 strain. When used as inactivated vaccine, MAB2560 protein that chimeric expressed on the viral particles will aid in targeting and activating the dendritic cells. The expression of MAB2560 protein was not reducing the expression of G protein, the major immunogen of rabies virus, thus, allowing rCVS11-MAB2560 to retain the natural immunogenicity of RABV. Compared to rCVS11, rCVS11-MAB2560 achieved a higher viral titre in mouse neuroblastoma N2A cells and BSR cells and had a lower pathogenicity in experimental mice. The result suggests that the recombinant rCVS11-MAB2560 can induce immune respond effectively than the parent’s virus in the experimental mice and dogs. The rCVS11-MAB2560 can be a new candidate for inactivated rabies vaccine. A better adjuvant with fewer side effects also should be pursued to increase the immunological efficacy of the vaccines. 

(MA)