Virus-like particles (VLPs) are self-assembling protein particles that mimic the structural organization and conformation of viruses. Display on VLPs greatly enhances the response to otherwise poorly immunogenic epitopes because VLPs increase the up-take by antigen presenting cells and cross-presentation.

Display of antigens on VLPs is usually achieved by either chemical conjugation or genetic fusion to the viral coat protein.

Although genetic fusion has been successful in numerous examples, it remains a time-consuming trial-and-error approach.

Splittera split inteins as a tool for decorating VLPs:

– universal process done in vitro through a trans-splicing reaction

– the viral particle and the antigen are expressed separately, each in the most convenient host for correct post-translational modifications