Abstract: This invention relates to a method of immunizing a vertebrate, comprising introducing into the vertebrate a DNA transcription unit which comprises DNA encoding a desired antigen or antigens. The uptake of the DNA transcription unit by a host vertebrate results in the expression of the desired antigen or antigens, thereby eliciting humoral or cell-mediated immune responses or both humoral and cell-mediated responses. The elicited humoral and cell-mediated immune response can provide protection against infection by pathogenic agents, provide an anti-tumor response, or provide contraception. The host can be any vertebrate, avian or mammal, including humans.
Type:
Application
Filed:
January 22, 2004
Publication date:
October 21, 2004
Applicants:
University of Massachusetts, a Massachusetts corporation, St. Judes Children's Research Hospital, a Tennessee corporation
Inventors:
Harriet L. Robinson, Ellen F. Fynan, Robert G. Webster, Shan Lu