Enhancement of Antiviral Agents through the Use of Controlled-Release Technology

Abstract

The major objectives of this research program are to develop a programmed-release delivery system (microcapsule system) designed to enhance the immunogenic potential of an inactivated (killed) Japanese Encephalitis (JE) virus vaccine, allowing for immunization against this viral agent and, to develop controlled-release microcapsule delivery systems that will enhance the effects of the following immune modulators and antiviral agents: muramyl tripeptide (MTP), interferon (IFN), and poly(riboinosinic acid-ribocytidylic acid) POLY(I C). More specifically, we are involved in the development of biocompatible, biodegradable, controlled-release microcapsule formulations to release poly(I C), interferon (IFN), and JE vaccine at controlled rates after a single intramuscular or intravenous administration. We also plan to develop microcapsule formulations that will target the release of MTP to macrophages, causing macrophage activation and subsequent nonimmune protection against active viral infections. During this year of the research program, we performed immunization studies with a prototype JE microcapsule formulation. The results obtained to date indicate the anti-JE antibody is present in the animals 136 days after administration of the prototype microcapsule formulation.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 11, 1988
Accession Number
ADB142021

Entities

People

  • Melinda G Hollingshead
  • Richard M. Gilley
  • Thomas R. Tice
  • William M. Shannon

Organizations

  • Southern Research

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Arbovirus Infections
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemistry
  • Electron Microscopy
  • Encapsulation
  • Fluids
  • Gamma Rays
  • Interferon
  • Medical Personnel
  • Microcapsules
  • Proteins
  • Rift Valley Fever
  • Saline Solution
  • Scanning Electron Microscopy
  • Time Intervals
  • Vaccines

Fields of Study

  • Biology
  • Medicine

Readers

  • Nanocomposite Materials Science
  • Virology (or Medical Virology).

Technology Areas

  • Biotechnology
  • Biotechnology - Cancer Biotech