Abstract: The present invention concerns methods and compositions for subunit-based vaccines for inducing immunity against poxvirus infections, such as smallpox. Preferred embodiments concern immunoconjugates comprising one or more subunit antigenic peptides attached to an antibody or fragment thereof that targets antigen-producing cells (APCs). More preferably, the antibody binds to HLA-DR and the antigenic peptide is from an immunomodulating factor, such as the viral IL-18 binding protein (vIL18BP). However, mixtures of antigenic peptides from different viral proteins may also be used. The vaccine is capable of inducing immunity against poxvirus without risk of disseminated infection in immunocompromised hosts or transmission to susceptible contacts.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new delivery system and method for producing same. The delivery system is a biphasic system of delivering charged macromolecules and comprises of a negatively charged hydrophobic organic phase and a positively charged inorganic phase. The organic phase and the inorganic phase entrapping added macromolecules. The macromolecules are entrapped by electrostatic bonds between the organic phase, the inorganic phase and the macromolecules. The method for producing the delivery system comprises the steps of contacting together and mixing a negatively charged organic phase, a charged macro-molecule and a positively charged inorganic phase.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new delivery system and method for producing same. The delivery system is a biphasic system of delivering charged macromolecules and comprises a negatively charged hydrophobic organic phase and a positively charged inorganic phase. The organic phase and the inorganic phase entrapping added macromolecules. The macromolecules are entrapped by electrostatic bonds between the organic phase, the inorganic phase and the macromolecules. The method for producing the delivery system comprises the steps of contacting together and mixing a negatively charged organic phase, a charged macromolecule and positively charged inorganic phase.

Abstract: Novel archaeosome compositions and their use in vaccine formulations as adjuvants and/or delivery systems, to enhance the immune response to immunogens in an animal such as a human, are described. Another aspect relates to the use of these archaeosomes to enhance the delivery of compounds such as pharmaceuticals to specific cell types and tissues in animals and other life forms, via various routes of administration such as subcutaneous, intramuscular, and oral. The efficacy of the archaeosomes and also of conventional liposomes can be further improved in these applications, by incorporation of coenzyme Q10 and/or polyethyleneglycol-lipid conjugate into liposomes made from these archaeosomes.

Abstract: Novel archaeosome compositions and their use in vaccine formulations as adjuvants and/or delivery systems, to enhance the immune response to immunogens in an animal such as a human, are described. Another aspect relates to the use of these archaeosomes to enhance the delivery of compounds such as pharmaceuticals to specific cell types and tissues in animals and other life forms, via various routes of administration such as subcutaneous, intramuscular, and oral. The efficacy of the archaeosomes and also of conventional liposomes can be further improved in these applications by incorporation of coenzyme Q.sub.10 and/or polyethyleneglycol-lipid conjugate into liposomes made from these archaeosomes.