A test for the relative potency of herpes simplex virus vaccines based upon the female guinea-pig model of HSV 2 genital infection.
An ELISA for total herpes simplex virus (HSV) 1 antigen content and a test of immunogenicity based upon the female guinea-pig model of HSV 2 genital infection were applied to two samples from batches of HSV 1 subunit ('Skinner') vaccine. The ELISA was reproducible within an approximately threefold limit of error and batches 1 and 2 were indistinguishable in antigen content. The effects of vaccination in the guinea-pig model were assessed by a statistical analysis of scores derived from the principal clinical signs, vaginal oedema and lesions on the external genitalia. The statistical power of the guinea-pig assay was such that reductions in the severity of illness approaching 40% would be significant (P less than 0.05) on 90% of occasions. The ability to make quantitative estimates of immunogenicity will prove useful in the quality control of HSV vaccine batches which are destined for clinical trials in man.
Phillpotts
R J
RJ
Centre for Applied Microbiology and Research, Wiltshire, U.K.
Welch
M J
MJ
Ridgeway
P H
PH
Walkland
A C
AC
Melling
J
J
D000818:Animals; D000914:Antibodies, Viral / Q000032:analysis; D000956:Antigens, Viral / Q000032:analysis; D003588:Cytopathogenic Effect, Viral; D004797:Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay; D005260:Female; D006168:Guinea Pigs; D006558:Herpes Genitalis / Q000382:microbiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018139:Simplexvirus / Q000276:immunology* / Q000302:isolation & purification; D014621:Vagina / Q000382:microbiology; D014709:Vero Cells; D014765:Viral Vaccines / Q000592:standards
D000914:Antibodies, Viral; D000956:Antigens, Viral; D014765:Viral Vaccines