Peptides reloaded - new strategies for tolerogenic vaccination

Our group is presently focusing on the first point and designing novel modifications of peptide-based vaccines able to induce regulatory cells. Conjugation of peptides to carrier molecules is one way to improve their in vivo efficacy in inducing Foxp3+ Tregs. In an EAE model, an improved protective efficacy can be demonstrated. A second approach is aiming to target the antigen to the gastrointestinal route which is usually associated with tolerization rather than effector response. Use of signal molecules targeting the peptides to epithelial transport mechanisms is presently explored to improve the efficacy of intestinal vaccination. Finally, we investigate immunomodulatory substances produced by parasites for a potential use as tolerogenic adjuvants. While these approaches might help to improve feasibility of peptide vaccination to induce tolerance, we assume that treatment of existing autoimmune disease will require a combination therapy which incorporates elimination of inflammatory effector cells or suppression of their activity.