| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nThe present invention includes nucleic acid molecules comprising transcription units encoding flavivirus M and E protein antigens. The flavivirus includes double encephalitis virus, dengue virus, yellow fever virus, and St. Louis Encephalitis virus. The nucleic acid functions to provide M and E protein antigens when the nucleic acid is present in a suitable host cell, especially when the host cell is a cell of a subject. The invention also includes a vaccine whose active substance is a nucleic acid. The invention further encompasses a cultured host cell, where the host cell contains a nucleic acid molecule comprising the transcription unit within the cell. The invention further encompasses a method of immunizing a subject against flavivirus infection by administering to the subject an effective amount of a vaccine comprising a nucleic acid molecule comprising a transcription unit of the invention. |