Effects of Antigen Dose and Immunization Regimens on Antibody Responses to a Cytomegalovirus Glycoprotein B Subunit Vaccine

The purpose of this phase I study was to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of 2 doses of cytomegalovirus glycoprotein B (CMV gB)/MF59 vaccine at 3 different immunization schedules. Ninety-five volunteers were randomized to 6 groups. Antibodies to gB represent the majority of the CMV-specific neutralizing response. Three groups received 5 m go f gB antigen combined with MF59 (a proprietary adjuvant) and 3 groups received a 30-mg dose at 0, 1, and 2 months; 0, 1, and 4 months; or 0, 1, and 6 months. The vaccine was well tolerated, and there was no significant difference in antibody production between the 2 doses. The vaccine induced highest antibody titers when given at 0, 1, and 6 months. A low dose of CMV gB/ MF59 may be the preferred dose for future studies.