Insilco Approach for Unraveling Flagellin as a Promising Antigen for Next-Gen DNA Vaccines

Abstract

Objective: To identify and characterize the best possible vaccine candidate among entire proteome of Salmonella typhimurium on the basis of its suitability as an immunogen for DNA vaccine development, emphasizing its non-allergenic properties and it’s potential to elicit elevated antibody titers. Methodology: It was an exploratory, Insilco experimental study. It was performed at the Pathology laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, GC University Lahore, from January 2020 to October 2020. This study employed the powerful approach of reverse vaccinology to investigate the proteome of Salmonella Typhimurium. Our primary focus was directed towards flagellin, a protein previously considered hypothetical, which bears a striking resemblance to a conserved extracellular phage-encoded counterpart (accession number AEF07831.1). Results: Total sample size of study was 207(N). Our investigation unveils the remarkable ability of flagellin to elicit both innate and adaptive immune responses. This dual role in orchestrating immune reactions, as predicted by Vaxijen, C-Immsim, Allertop and Properd significantly enhances the potential value of flagellin as a potentially strong DNA vaccine candidate. Conclusion: With the anticipation of flagellin as a potent immunogen, molecular cloning within a non-pathogenic host, we envision a new paradigm in defense against Salmonella Typhimurium. Nonetheless, the imperative for empirical validation remains, guiding us forward on our journey fueled by the allure of uncharted scientific discovery.