L16 - Bristol Genetics Flashcards
What are first-generation vaccines?
Whole pathogen vaccines, including inactivated (killed) and live-attenuated vaccines.
Give an example of an inactivated vaccine.
The polio vaccine.
What are second-generation vaccines?
Subunit vaccines that use isolated proteins or viral vectors to deliver genes of interest.
Give an example of a live-attenuated vaccine.
The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine.
What are third-generation vaccines?
Nucleic acid vaccines that use RNA or DNA, often encapsulated in nanoparticles.
What are the two main types of viral vector vaccines?
Replicating and non-replicating.
Which viral vector vaccine was used for COVID-19?
The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, which uses a non-replicating adenovirus vector.
What are virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines?
Vaccines that mimic viruses but lack genetic material, such as HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines.
What is an advantage of mRNA vaccines?
Rapid development and adaptability to emerging viral variants.
Why do mRNA vaccines require lipid nanoparticles?
To facilitate cell entry and protect the mRNA from degradation.
What is self-amplifying RNA?
A form of mRNA that produces more antigenic material to enhance immune response.
How do high-throughput analyses aid vaccine development?
They track viral mutations and help adapt vaccines accordingly.
What is structural vaccinology?
The study of antigen structures to design more effective vaccines.
How can stabilizing mutations improve vaccines?
By ensuring antigens retain their proper structure, enhancing immunogenicity.
What is epitope mapping?
Identifying specific antigen regions that trigger immune responses.
What is germ-line targeting?
A strategy to guide immune responses toward broadly neutralizing antibodies.
Why is germ-line targeting useful for HIV vaccines?
Because HIV rapidly mutates, making broadly neutralizing antibodies essential.
What is systems immunology?
A holistic approach to understanding immune responses using multidimensional data.
How does systems immunology improve vaccine safety?
By identifying biomarkers linked to vaccine efficacy and adverse reactions.
Why is demographic data important in vaccine design?
Age, sex, and genetics influence immune responses and vaccine effectiveness.
How can vaccines be rapidly adapted to new viral strains?
By utilizing genomic surveillance and mRNA vaccine platforms.
What was a key finding from COVID-19 vaccine studies?
mRNA vaccines can be updated quickly in response to emerging variants.
Why is antigen stability important in vaccine development?
Unstable antigens may lead to weak or short-lived immune responses.
What is the role of adjuvants in vaccines?
They enhance immune response and prolong immunity.
Why do live-attenuated vaccines pose risks for immunocompromised individuals?
Because they contain weakened but still replicating viruses.
How did genome sequencing help during an E. coli outbreak?
It traced the epidemic strain and identified resistance genes.
What is the role of structural biology in vaccine development?
It helps design stable, highly immunogenic proteins.
Why are RNA vaccines considered the future of immunization?
They are adaptable, scalable, and can target emerging diseases quickly.
How does high-throughput sequencing aid disease surveillance?
By monitoring genetic changes in pathogens in real time.
What are some advantages of subunit vaccines?
They avoid live pathogens, reducing safety concerns.
Why are virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines effective?
They mimic real viruses, stimulating strong immune responses.
What are neutralizing antibodies?
Antibodies that prevent viruses from infecting cells.
How can epitope optimization improve vaccines?
By ensuring vaccines target the most effective immune responses.
What is a major limitation of inactivated vaccines?
They often require booster doses to maintain immunity.
How do mRNA vaccines differ from protein subunit vaccines?
mRNA vaccines instruct cells to produce antigens, while subunit vaccines deliver antigens directly.
What is the benefit of using nanoparticle delivery for vaccines?
It improves stability and enhances immune uptake.
Why are lipid nanoparticles used in mRNA vaccines?
They protect mRNA and facilitate cell delivery.
What was a key advantage of the COVID-19 mRNA vaccines?
Their rapid adaptability to new variants.
What is the significance of T-cell immunity in vaccines?
It provides long-lasting protection beyond antibody responses.
How does computational modeling aid vaccine development?
By predicting immune responses and optimizing antigen design.
What are some challenges of RNA vaccines?
Storage at low temperatures and potential need for boosters.
Why is early-stage immune profiling important in vaccine trials?
It helps predict vaccine efficacy and safety.
What is the primary role of Fc receptors in immunity?
They help immune cells recognize and clear pathogens.
How does the immune system recognize mRNA vaccines?
Through innate sensors that trigger immune activation.
What role do dendritic cells play in vaccination?
They process and present antigens to T cells.
How does TLR activation improve vaccine responses?
It stimulates innate immunity, enhancing adaptive responses.
What is the goal of universal vaccines?
To protect against multiple strains or variants of a virus.
How does vaccine durability affect immunization strategies?
Longer-lasting immunity reduces the need for frequent boosters.
What is a major advantage of using computational immunology in vaccine research?
It allows for faster vaccine design and testing.
What is the future direction of vaccine development?
Personalized vaccines tailored to genetic and immunological differences.
