Cationic Immune Stimulating Complexes Containing Soluble Leishmania Antigens: Preparation, Characterization and in Vivo Immune Response Evaluation

Background: Cationic immune stimulating complexes (PLUSCOMs) are particulate antigen delivery systems. PLUSCOMs consist of cationic immunostimulatory complexes (ISCOMs) derivatives and are able to elicit in vivo T cell responses against an antigen. Objective: To evaluate the effects of PLUSCOMs containing Leishmaniamajor antigens (SLA) on the type of immune response generated in the murine model of leishmaniasis. Methods: PLUSCOMs consisting of 1, 2-dioleoyl-3- trimethylammonium-propane (DOTAP) were used as antigen delivery system/immunoadjuvants for soluble SLA. BALB/c mice were immunized subcutaneously, three times in 2-week intervals. Footpads swellings at the site of challenge and parasite loads were assessed as a measure of protection. The immune responses were also evaluated by determination of IgG subclasses and the level of IFN- γ and IL-4 in cultured splenocytes. Results: There was no significant difference (p