Abstract Background. Group A streptococcus (GAS) causes illness ranging from
uncomplicated pharyngitis to life-threatening necrotizing fasciitis, toxic shock, and rheumatic
fever. Attempts to develop an M protein–based vaccine have been hindered by the fact that
some M proteins elicit both protective antibodies and antibodies that cross-react with human
tissues. New molecular techniques have allowed the previous obstacles to be largely
overcome. Methods. The vaccine is comprised of 4 recombinant proteins adsorbed to …

Aims: The goal of this study was to conduct a phase I study of the safety and immunogenicity
of a 26-valent plus streptococcal protective antigen (Spa) M proteinbased recombinant
vaccine. The multivalent vaccine used in this study was designed to include protective
epitopes from serotypes responsible for 85% to 90% of cases of uncomplicated pharyngitis
and serious, invasive disease. Methods: The vaccine is comprised of four recombinant
proteins adsorbed to aluminum hydroxide that contain N-terminal peptides from …