Alternative influenza vaccines made by insect cells

Abstract

The recent outbreak of swine-origin H1N1 influenza virus demonstrated the potential threat of new emerging human pathogenic influenza strains. Additionally, seasonal influenza virus strains cause substantial morbidity and mortality every year. Egg-derived influenza vaccines have served well to combat influenza infections since the 1940s. Still, faster and safer high-yielding production methods have to be established to meet the current needs for influenza vaccines. Insect cell-derived influenza vaccines are a new alternative to egg-derived vaccines. Three different approaches to insect cell-derived influenza vaccines have been established that could contribute to future influenza vaccine supply and development.