Du Xuena

Dr. Du Xuena


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

1Year (2026-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

View All Publications
19 May 2026 in Vaccines
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
DXDu Xuena
Du Xuena
YYYuxia Yuan
Yuxia Yuan
CTCong Tang
Cong Tang
YLYanwen Li
Yanwen Li
ZGZhaolan Guo
Zhaolan Guo
SLShuaiyao Lu
Shuaiyao Lu
Background/Objectives: Recurrent influenza epidemics impose a severe global burden, with conventional vaccines constrained by production time lags and rapid viral mutation. This study aims to explore a novel influenza mRNA vaccine design that balances conserved and mutable antigen regions. By combining hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) into a dual-target approach, the objective is to simultaneously block viral entry and inhibit progeny release, potentially establishing a proposed “front-blockade, rear-containment” dual protective barrier against multiple H1N1 strains. Methods: We engineered a dual-target tandem mRNA vaccine linking mutated HA with conserved NA, with strategic amino acid mutations introduced into key antigenic sites within the HA head domain. Vaccine efficacy was evaluated in a mouse model. Humoral immunity was assessed by measuring antigen-specific antibody titers, and cellular immunity was evaluated via ELISpot assay. Protective capacity was determined through lethal challenge experiments using diverse H1N1 viral strains. Results: The vaccine successfully expressed the HA-NA tandem antigen at 130 kDa, and the in vitro-expressed antigen exhibited normal neuraminidase activity. Preliminary evidence supported the dual-target concept in model mice: hemagglutination-inhibiting and micro-neutralizing antibodies targeting HA were detected, and serum neuraminidase-inhibiting activity was also observed. In addition to triggering potent cellular immune responses, the vaccine offered total protection against lethal doses of various H1N1 variants. Conclusions: This study suggests a promising dual-target strategy that harmonizes antigen conservation and mutation while potentially establishing a synergistic front-blockade and rear-containment defense. The approach offers a viable pathway for developing improved H1N1 influenza vaccines.