The development of multi-epitope vaccines: epitope identification, vaccine design and clinical evaluation.

We have developed efficient methods for epitope identification and vaccine design. Our process for epitope selection based on the combined use of motif analyses, binding assays and immunogenicity evaluations is described. We also describe how the projected population coverage and vaccine design can be optimized. Finally, it is discussed how vaccine potency is evaluated by immunogenicity and antigenicity assays. Copyright 2001 The International Association for Biologicals.