L17 - Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) and Bacterial Diagnostics 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.