Abstract: An immunopotentiating composition comprising a papaya mosaic virus (PapMV), or a virus-like particle (VLP) derived from PapMV coat protein, which is capable of functioning as an adjuvant and thus potentiating an immune response in an animal is provided. The immunopotentiating composition can further comprise an immunogen, which can be fused or otherwise linked to the VLP, or not linked to the VLP. The immunopotentiating composition is capable of potentiating a humoral and/or a cellular response in the animal and is suitable for use as an adjuvant or vaccine. Methods of potentiating an immune response in an animal comprising administering to the animal an immunopotentiating composition are also provided have application in both human and veterinary medicine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an immunogen-carrier having immunopotentiating or adjuvant properties. More particularly, the immunogen-carrier is a virus-like particle (VLP) from the family of potexvirus, and most particularly the papaya mosaic virus. The VLP produced by recombinant techniques is in fusion with one of its own proteins a protein immunogen. The above VLP and a protein or a protein extract from a viral, bacterial or parasital pathogen may be used as a vaccine.