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Abstract

An immunological response potentiation process is disclosed for synthetic or genetically engineered antigens having low immunogenicity. The antigen is embedded into biodegradable microparticles, and the antigen-loaded microparticles are dispersed in a biodegradable medium. When parenterally administered, the antigen-loaded microparticles trigger a potentiated antibody, T.sub.H -lymphocyte and T.sub.c -lymphocyte response, as compared to an aqueous antigen solution. The extent of immunological potentiation is at least comparable with that attained by Incomplete Freund's adjuvant compositions. Linear B-T.sub.H -cell epitopes, linear T.sub.c -cell epitopes, dimers and multimers of those epitopes, and mixtures thereof, are used as low immunogenicity antigens. The microparticles are based on biodegradable biopolymers such as polyester, polyanhydride, and polyorthoester. By mixing microparticles with different wettabilities, swellabilities, release and biodegradation times, the most intense and longest immunological potentiation is achieved. This process is useful for immunizing humans and animals against diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, protozoa or tumor cells.

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First Claim