Safety and Efficacy of Gram-Negative Bacterial Vaccines

Abstract

Many of the bacterial pathogens that threaten our farm animal species are Gram negative organisms. It is equally notable that many of the foodborne human pathogens of animal origin are also Gram negative bacterial contaminants. This report will discuss the new approach of immunizing against common core antigens of Gram negative bacterial pathogens. In fighting against this diverse group of pathogens, we must also address the historical problem of adverse vaccine reactions associated with Gram negative vaccines. Methods that were employed at the University of California in developing a safe, efficacious, and cost effective immunogen for coliform mastitis will be presented. Several commercial preparations with gram negative antigens are on the market today, while others will soon be approved for sale to the public. Salient discussions regarding what questions should be asked concerning vaccine safety and efficacy are in order.