Preinfection prophylaxis with herpes simplex virus glycoprotein immunogens: factors influencing efficacy.

Using a guinea-pig model of genital herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection we explored the protection afforded by preinfection immunization with HSV glycoproteins. Glycoprotein immunogens prepared by recombinant DNA technology were found to be as effective as immunogens purified from HSV-infected cell cultures. Immunized animals developed less severe primary disease and also experienced less frequent recurrent infections. Protection was influenced by both adjuvant and route of administration. These studies suggest that recombinant HSV glycoproteins may be effective immunogens for human clinical trials, but that the development of an effective vaccine will require identification of new potent adjuvants that are safe for human use.