Development of a non-immunising, paraspecific vaccine from attenuated pox viruses: a new type of vaccine

Abstract

The various research periods leading to the development of paraspecific vaccines are described. Paraspecific vaccines are new, pyrogen-free, non-toxic preparations that contain non-immunising antigens and can be used to generate endogenic protective, non-antigen specific mechanisms in the sense of paramunization in humans and animals. They consist of highly attenuated and inactivated (0.05% Betapropiolactone) virus strains of various poxvirus genera. They activate the T helper cells and cellular elements of the paraspecific (innate) immune system and initiate the associated production and release of cytokines (cytokine cascade) with the goal of eliminating dysfunctions of the immune systems, rapidly enhancing the individual's non-pathogen- and non-antigen-specific defences and exerting a regulatory effect on the interplay between the immune, hormone, nervous and vascular systems (signal-transduction mediators). They can be used systemically (intramuscularly) and locally (mucous membranes, skin). Immunization with paraspecific vaccines does not lead to postvaccinal complications and can be carried out as often as necessary, even for a number of years. They are compatible with conventional medicines and conventional specific vaccines. Closely linked protein complexes in the envelopes of the virus particles are responsible for their efficacy, some of those envelope protein complexes possess the properties of weak super antigens. Paraspecific vaccines have proved effective in combating viral infections, in particular herpes and hepatitis B and C infections, and chronic inflammatory diseases, and also as adjuvant therapy for tumours, for curing stress-related disturbances and dysfunctions of the immune system.