Harnessing reverse vaccinology for the design and validation of mRNA vaccine targeting the glycoprotein of human metapneumovirus (HMPV)
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a major cause of respiratory illness among vulnerable populations worldwide, yet no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral therapy is currently available. This study aimed to design novel multi-epitope mRNA vaccine candidates against HMPV using an immunoinformatics-based approach. Methods Globally representative HMPV glycoprotein sequences were analyzed to predict cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL), helper T-lymphocyte (HTL), and linear B-cell (LBL) epitopes. Selected epitopes were assembled into two multi-epitope mRNA vaccine constructs. The constructs were further evaluated for antigenicity, allergenicity, toxicity, and physicochemical properties using in silico tools. Structural stability and immune receptor interactions were assessed through molecular modeling and molecular docking analyses against Toll-like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR2 and TLR4). Results Both vaccine constructs demonstrated high antigenicity, while remaining non-toxic and non-allergenic, with favorable physicochemical characteristics. Structural analyses indicated stable conformations of the vaccine models. Molecular docking studies revealed strong binding affinities with TLR2 and TLR4, suggesting their ability to effectively stimulate innate and adaptive immune responses. Conclusion The two proposed multi-epitope mRNA vaccine constructs showed promising immunogenic, safety, and structural properties in silico, highlighting their potential as candidate vaccines against HMPV. These findings provide a strong foundation for further experimental validation and future vaccine development.
Source: Discover Immunity.
Authors: Elijah Kolawole Oladipo, James Akinwumi Ogunniran, Oluwaseyi Samuel Akinpelu, Blossom Idara Akpan, Haleemah Hamzah, Sola Peter Ogunmodede, Glory Jesudara Oluwasanya, Esther Oluwadarasimi Adaramola, Possible Okikiola Popoola, Praise Temitope Adedokun, Toluwanimi Stephen Gbadero, Esther Moradeyo Jimah, Elukunbi Hilda Awoyelu, Bamidele Abiodun Iwalokun, Tosin Yetunde Senbadejo, Olumuyiwa Elijah Ariyo, Sunday Babatunde Akinde, Oluwaseyi Paul Olaniyan, Helen Onyeaka, Simeon Kayowa Olatunde
Institutions: Adeleke University, Helix Biogen Institute, University of Birmingham, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, University of Ghana, West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, Osun State University, Canterbury Christ Church University, William Harvey Hospital, East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust
Language: English
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $1,240
Funder: Biogen
OpenAlex ID: W7172307221