Murine Polyomavirus-VP1 Virus-like Particles Immunize against some Polyomavirus-induced Tumours

Abstract

The ability of murine polyomavirus (MPyV)-VP1 virus-like particles (MPyV-VLPs) to immunize against MPyV tumour outgrowth was investigated. Non-immunized and mice immunized three times were challenged with MPyV or non-MPyV tumours and followed for tumour outgrowth. MPyV-VLP immunization abrogated outgrowth of some, but not all, tested MPyV tumours and delayed the outgrowth of a non-MPyV tumour to some extent. However, when mice were irradiated prior to tumour challenge to avoid an unspecific immune response, protection was MPyV-specific. In conclusion, VLP immunization for prevention of viral infection could also contribute to immune-protection against some tumours induced by the corresponding virus.