Proteome-wide Epitope Prediction: Leveraging Bioinformatic Technologies in Rational Vaccine Design

Abstract

Vaccine development began in the 1790’s when Edward Jenner used cowpox to confer protection against the smallpox virus [1]. The field of vaccinology has greatly expanded since then, wherein vaccination has been a valuable tool in the decline of many diseases [1,2]. While Jenner’s use of cowpox shares attributes to a live-attenuated vaccine, there are alternate methods of vaccination, which include subunit, conjugate, mRNA, viral vector, and toxoid vaccines [2-4]. Development of these methods was facilitated through greater understanding of the immune response, elucidation of both host and pathogen genetic diversity, and advancement of laboratory techniques [1-3]. The most recent notable advancement in vaccine production was the development of a nucleic acid vaccine to combat the SARS-CoV-2 virus [1]. While advancement in vaccine methodology can be readily seen, many subunit-based vaccines end up generating a predominantly B-cell driven response [1,5].