Infection with Shiga toxin-producing (Stx) Escherichia coli (STEC) currently represents a serious public health problem due to its life-threatening complications: hemorrhagic colitis and hemolytic uremic syndrome. An inability to induce neutralizing antibody in response to primary STEC infection has been reported in STEC-infected humans. Therefore, active immunization with detoxified Stx to induce the production of neutralizing antibodies against Stx is currently an attractive option. Although this would not prevent the spread of infection, it would protect against death caused by cytotoxin-producing E. coli infection. Stx coupled with liposomes effectively induced protection against challenge with lethal doses of Stx in mice and in monkeys. Unique characteristics of antigen-liposome conjugates found in our investigations are reviewed, and the possible application of Stx-liposome conjugates in vaccines for the prevention of life-threatening systemic complications caused by STEC infection is discussed.
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