Computational analysis of Indonesian rabies vaccine enhanced by myeloid differentiation factor 88 (Myd88) genetic adjuvant

Rabies remains a pervasive zoonotic disease in Indonesia, necessitating innovative strategies for vaccine development. This manuscript presents an in silico study focused on the construction of a novel plasmid-based DNA vaccine targeting the Indonesian rabies virus (RBV) glycoprotein, augmented with myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) as a genetic adjuvant. The glycoprotein of the RBV is a key immunogenic target due to its central role in viral entry and infection. MyD88, a crucial component of the innate immune system, has the potential to enhance the efficacy of vaccines through the activation of innate and adaptive immune responses. In this study, we employ computational biology techniques to elucidate the structural and functional interactions between the glycoprotein, MyD88, and host immune receptors, shedding light on the mechanisms by which MyD88 enhances vaccine-induced immunity. By leveraging in silico methods, this study contributed to the rational design of a plasmid-based DNA vaccine against rabies, with a particular focus on the Indonesian context. This approach has the potential to significantly reduce the incidence of rabies cases, enhance vaccine efficacy, and pave the way for future experimental validation and clinical trials.