Chinese research i think.
Developing an effective universal influenza vaccine against influenza virus with highly conserved antigenic epitopes could induce a broad-spectrum immune response to prevent infection.
(An epitope, also known as antigenic determinant, is the part of an antigen that is recognized by the immune system, specifically by antibodies, B cells, or T cells. For example, the epitope is the specific piece of the antigen to which an antibody binds. See picture1)
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza virus infection. Current influenza vaccines are based on induction of protective antibodies against the viral surface hemagglutinin (HA) protein, which can effectively neutralize the influenza virus and significantly reduce morbidity and mortality. However, owing the variability of HA, vaccine strains need to be changed every year.
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