Panel A. J-LEAPS conjugates bind to an unknown receptor such as a MHC or other molecule to induce maturation of a DC precursor; Maturation of the precursor to a semi-mature CD8 expressing DC is accompanied by production of IL-12p70 but not TNF-α; Interaction of the J-LEAPS-DC with T cells activates the cell and steers the cell to make IFN-γ to promote a Th1 response.
Panel B. Ex vivo treatment of human monocytes or mouse bone marrow cells with J-LEAPS vaccines generates a unique semi-mature DC which steers the T cell toward a Th1 response.
Panel C. During viral (HSV or influenza) infection, inflammation and viral pathogenesis cause disease. Prior immunization with J-LEAPS vaccines generates T cells that rapidly control and restrict the spread of infection and limit the inflammation. Administration of LEAPS-DCs (as shown for influenza) after infection will rapidly activate T cell responses, limit inflammation, virus production and disease production.
