Mosaic Qβ coats as a new presentation model

Abstract
The new protein carrier was developed on the basis of recombinant RNA phage Qβ capsid. C‐terminal UGA extension of the short form of Qβ coat, so‐called A1 extension, served as a target for presentation of foreign peptides on the outer surface of mosaic Qβ particles. In conditions of enhanced UGA suppression, the proportion of A1‐extended to short coats in mosaic particles dropped from 48% to 14%, with an increase of the length of A1 extension. A model insertion, short preS1 epitope 31‐DPAFR‐35 of hepatitis B surface antigen, demonstrated superficial location on the mosaic Qβ particles and ensured specific antigenicity and immunogenicity.