A team of US researchers has discovered a protein that can help the vaccinations be more effective and provide protection from cancer, HIV and influenza. Researchers from Boston University’s school of medicine purified a protein -- called PorB -- found on the exterior of bacteria (neisseria meningidis) and used it as an accessory to provide a better vaccination response. Typically, vaccines can either increase the amount of antibody production or they can stimulate cells called cytotoxic T cells to directly kill the offending agent. The team used two experimental models -- first model was given a vaccination with antigen and mixed PorB, while the second model was given the antigen alone. The Boston University findings allow for greater understanding of how vaccine enhancers work and can best be used.

Source: Hindustan Times April 10, 2017 03:33 UTC