| abstract |
This invention relates to a polynucleotide sequence consisting essentially of a DNA encoding a desired antigen operatively linked to a promoter region, and optionally one or more bacterial plasmid sequences, for use in vertebrate immunization. The uptake of the polynucleotide sequence by a host vertebrate results in the expression of the desired antigen or antigens, for example hemagglutinin, thereby eliciting humoral or cell-mediated immune responses or both. The elicited immune response can provide protection against infection by pathogenic agents, provide an anti-tumor response, or provide contraception. The host can be any vertebrate, avian or mammal, including humans. |