Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus vaccines: current status and novel approaches

Abstract

Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is a cause of severe respiratory infection in humans, specifically the elderly and people with comorbidities. The re-emergence of lethal coronaviruses calls for international collaboration to produce coronavirus vaccines, which are still lacking to date. Ongoing efforts to develop MERS-CoV vaccines should consider the different target populations (dromedary camels and humans) and the correlates of protection. Extending on our current knowledge of MERS, vaccination of dromedary camels to induce mucosal immunity could be a promising approach to diminish MERS-CoV transmission to humans. In addition, it is equally important to develop vaccines for humans that induce broader reactivity against various coronaviruses to be prepared for a potential next CoV outbreak.

Graphical abstract

Figure 1

Epitope-based vaccine design. Following a virus infection, potential protective B- and T-cell epitopes are mapped. Peptides or proteins containing promising epitopes are produced and formulated using a suitable platform, for example, nanoparticles and tested for immunogenicity and efficacy in animals. Follwing several cycles of testing and optimization, a final vaccine suitable for human use may be produced.