Dengue disease remains a significant global health threat, with current vaccines exhibiting variable efficacy and safety concerns. Virus-like particles (VLPs) offer a promising alternative by mimicking native virus structures without infectious genomes. We engineered a mammalian expression plasmid encoding Dengue-1 prM and E proteins, optimized for secretion using Japanese Encephalitis virus signal sequences, and transiently expressed it in HeLa cells. Purified VLPs exhibited spherical morphology (~39 nm diameter) consistent with native virions, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. Immunization of mice with these VLPs elicited robust Dengue-1specific IgG antibody responses. Our study demonstrates production of immunogenic Dengue-1 VLPs in HeLa cells, highlighting their potential as a vaccine candidate and a tool for serodiagnosis. Further characterization of VLP epitopes and protective efficacy is warranted to advance vaccine development.
Behavior change beyond intervention: an activity-theoretical perspective on human-centered design of personal health technology
IntroductionModern personal technologies, such as smartphone apps with artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, have a significant potential for helping people make necessary changes in their behavior