Invention A UCSD researcher has developed a novel method of identifying potential B cell superantigens which enhance the in vivo production of VH3 restricted antibodies. The method and superantigens selected using it have utility in the manufacture of vaccines. Versatile - vaccines against bacteria and viruses. They are produced in the bone marrow and enter the blood stream upon maturation as naive B cells. When a naive B cell encounters an antigen recognized by its membrane-bound antibody, it begins to divide rapidly and its progeny differentiate into memory B cells and plasma cells.
Plasma cells secrete large quantities of antibodies which recognize and neutralize the antigen.
Substances which can enhance this immune response would have utility in the production of potent vaccines.