An Immunoproteomics Approach to Screen the Antigenicity of the Influenza Virus

The structure and antigenicity of protein antigens of the influenza virus are screened in a single step employing an immunoproteomics approach. Matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-MS) coupled to gel electrophoresis is used both to identify viral antigens and screen their antigenicity. Earlier evidence that antigen–antibody complexes can survive on MALDI targets has allowed both the primary structure and antigenicity of viral strains to be rapidly screened with the specific localization of protein epitopes. The approach is anticipated to have a greater role in the future surveillance of the virus and should also aid in the development of immunogenic peptide constructs as alternatives to whole virus for vaccination.