ABSTRACT
SVLP-based vaccine candidates comprise a novel nanoparticle delivery system, which uses synthetic lipopeptide building blocks that spontaneously self-assemble in aqueous buffer into highly immunogenic nanoparticles in the 20-30 nm size range. Around 60-80 copies of the lipopeptide are incorporated into each nanoparticle. B-cell epitopes, in the form of conformationally stable proteins or synthetic antigen mimetics (SAMs), can be conjugated using suitable linkers to the lipopeptide building blocks (Figure 29.1). Alternatively, small molecule haptens (e.g., drugs) or synthetic oligosaccharides can also be linked to the SVLPs. After self-assembly, 60-80 copies of the B-cell epitope are then displayed across the outer surface of the nanoparticle and can effectively activate B cells through cross-linking of B-cell receptors (BCRs). However, SVLPs contain no genetic information and cannot replicate in cells.
