Evaluation of humoral immunity response to gold nanoparticles carrying Pseudomonas aeruginosa type IV pili in BALB/C mouse

Objective(s): Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the critical multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens. Vaccination could offer dual benefits by preventing sepsis caused by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria and curtailing the rise and selection of antimicrobial resistance due to excessive antibiotic use. With this in mind, we designed a vaccine candidate made of gold nanoparticles conjugated to pilin IV protein. Pilin IV protein is an important virulence factor in the pathogenesis of P. aeruginosa infections. Materials and Methods: Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) were synthesized. The Gold nanoparticles were conjugated to the recombinant protein pilin IV. The recombinant protein pilin IV was emulsified in Montanide ISA ۲۶۶’s adjuvant and was administered to BALB/c mice model via subcutaneous injection. The studied groups included recombinant protein with gold nanoparticles, recombinant protein with Montanide ISA ۲۶۶’s adjuvant, and the control group. After blood sampling at the appropriate time points, ELISA test was performed on the serum of the mice groups. Resuls: The results showed that the two studied groups could stimulate the mouse’s immune system. Both IgG antibody subclasses were stimulated. Conclusion: This compound can be a new candidate for recombinant vaccine design against P. aeruginosa as a dexterous pathogen.