Animal Models for Influenza Viruses: Implications for Universal Vaccine Development

Pathogens

Irina Margine¹  Florian Krammer¹ 

[1] Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA; E-Mail:

关键词: influenza virus;    heterosubtypic immunity;    influenza animal models;    universal influenza virus vaccine;   

DOI  :  10.3390/pathogens3040845

来源: mdpi

【 摘 要 】

Influenza virus infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the human population. Depending on the virulence of the influenza virus strain, as well as the immunological status of the infected individual, the severity of the respiratory disease may range from sub-clinical or mild symptoms to severe pneumonia that can sometimes lead to death. Vaccines remain the primary public health measure in reducing the influenza burden. Though the first influenza vaccine preparation was licensed more than 60 years ago, current research efforts seek to develop novel vaccination strategies with improved immunogenicity, effectiveness, and breadth of protection. Animal models of influenza have been essential in facilitating studies aimed at understanding viral factors that affect pathogenesis and contribute to disease or transmission. Among others, mice, ferrets, pigs, and nonhuman primates have been used to study influenza virus infection in vivo, as well as to do pre-clinical testing of novel vaccine approaches. Here we discuss and compare the unique advantages and limitations of each model.

【 授权许可】

CC BY   
© 2014 by the authors; licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.