Abstract

Construction and expression of a heterologous protein in Lactococcus lactis by using the nisin-controlled gene expression system: the case of the PRRSV ORF6 gene

The porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) continues to be a threat, exerting significant economic effects on the swine industry worldwide. However, none of the current commercially available vaccines can completely prevent respiratory infection, trans-placental transmission, pig-to-pig transmission of the virus, or maintain immune protection in sows. This study provides information on PRRSV and a review of available options for PRRS control strategies based on its pathogenic characteristics, immune properties, and biological characteristics. In this study, the nisin-controlled expression system of Lactococcus lactis was selected as a vector to express the ORF6 gene of PRRSV. Food-grade recombinant, L. lactis PNZ8149/NZ3900-M/PRRS, which contained the lactoseoperon, was successfully constructed. The molecular weight of the expressed recombinant protein was approximately 19 kDa. Furthermore, the recombinant protein was located on the surface of L. lactis and showed reactogenicity with the antibody against PRRSV. Results of this study are expected to lay a theoretical foundation for development of genetically engineered L. lactis mucosal vaccines and to provide information related to its immune activity and adjuvant effects.

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