Immunology Graduate Group
David B. Weiner
Address: 505 Stellar-Chance Labs/6100
Office Phone: 215-349-8365
Lab Phone: 215-662-2352
Fax: 215-349-5889
Email: dbweiner@mail.med.upenn.edu
Education:
B.S., Biology, SUNY at Stony Brook
M.S., Biology, University of Cincinnati
Ph.D., Biology, University of Cincinnati
Postdoctoral Research, Pathology, University of Pennsylvania
Research Interests
DNA immunization
Research Summary
Genetic immunization, also known as DNA or polynucleotide immunization, represents a novel approach for achieving specific immune induction. Immunization with DNA mimics aspects of live infection, as pathogen protein(s) are synthesized endogenously and modified or customized by host cells. This synthesis leads to the induction of a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response via the MHC class I-restricted pathway. Concurrently, protein(s) are released extra cellularly and the released antigen primes the induction of a humoral response, as well as a helper T lymphocyte (Th) response via MHC Class II-restricted antigen presentation by antigen presenting cells (APC's). We have focused on developing this technology for use in the control of infectious diseases and as an immune therpy approach for cancer. Studies of basic mechanisms of immune potency of plasmid vaccines for HIV-1 in both clinical therapeutic as well as vaccine na•ve populations are a focus of the laboratory. We have evaluated DNA vaccines in humans and demonstrated that this approach is well tolerated and immunogenic. However, additional engineering of this approach we consider important to further amplify the observed initial immune responses. Importantly, greater insight into the fundamental biology of this approach will give vaccine developers added tools for vaccine improvement.
Understanding and improving the potency of vaccines that work fairly well in mice to meet the standards required for large primates, including humans, is our major focus and a major task of the field.
Biomedical Graduate Studies | University of Pennsylvania | Contact