Respiratory syncytial virus vaccine

Abstract

Described is a vaccine against Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). More specifically, described is a recombinant subunit vaccine comprising the ectodomain of the RSV-encoded Small Hydrophobic (SH) protein. The ectodomain of SH is referred to as SHe. The ectodomain is typically presented as an oligomer, or pentamer. Further described are antibodies, raised against the ectodomain or specific for the ectodomain, and their use for protecting a subject against RSV infection and/or for treatment of an infected subject.

1 . An immunogenic composition comprising the ectodomain of the small hydrophobic protein of a Respiratory Syncytial Virus, and a carrier. 
     
     
         2 . The immunogenic composition of  claim 1 , wherein said ectodomain is presented as an oligomer. 
     
     
         3 . The immunogenic composition of  claim 1 , wherein the ectodomain comprises SEQ ID NOs:1-3, or a variant thereof. 
     
     
         4 . The immunogenic composition of  claim 1 , wherein the ectodomain is genetically linked to the carrier. 
     
     
         5 . The immunogenic composition of  claim 1 , wherein the ectodomain is chemically linked to the carrier. 
     
     
         6 . The immunogenic composition of  claim 1 , wherein the carrier is an oligomer. 
     
     
         7 . The immunogenic composition according to  claim 6 , wherein said oligomer is a pentamer. 
     
     
         8 . The immunogenic composition of  claim 1 , wherein the carrier is selected from the group consisting of Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (comp), Lpp-56, and a virus-like particle. 
     
     
         9 . (canceled) 
     
     
         10 . A method of protecting a subject against Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection, the method comprising:
 administering to a subject in need thereof the immunogenic composition of  claim 1  for protection against, or treatment of Respiratory Syncytial Virus infection in the subject.   
     
     
         11 - 19 . (canceled) 
     
     
         20 . A vaccine, comprising:
 the immunogenic composition of  claim 1 , and optionally, an adjuvant.   
     
     
         21 - 22 . (canceled)