Cross-protection induced by Toxoplasma gondii virus-like particle vaccine upon intraperitoneal route challenge

Abstract

The inner membrane complex sub-compartment has a critical role in Toxoplasma gondii endodyogeny. In this study, we investigated the protection upon intraperitoneal route (IP) challenge induced by the virus-like particles (VLPs) vaccine containing Toxoplasma gondii IMC ISP (RH strain) (Type I). Intranasal immunization with the VLPs in mice elicited enhanced systemic and mucosal Toxoplasma gondii-specific IgG, IgG1, IgG2a and IgA antibody responses, and CD4+ and CD8+ responses. Immunized mice significantly reduced T. gondii cyst burden and size in brain, resulting in cross-protection upon T. gondii (ME49) (Type II) challenge infection. These results indicate that the IP route challenge infection induced by T. gondii IMC ISP VLPs might be a very good target for vaccination representing novel approach to reduce infection.

Keywords: Inner membrane complex; Protection; Toxoplasma gondii; Vaccine; Virus-like particle.