Abstract
WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS TOPIC? At present, relatively few theoretical studies exist on the immunization strategies of tuberculosis vaccines, especially regarding the types of subunit protein vaccines suitable for combined application with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG). WHAT IS ADDED BY THIS REPORT? The study demonstrated that EPCP009, a novel subunit vaccine candidate, maintains BCG colonization in murine spleens while enhancing protection. Notably, a single dose of EPCP009 combined with BCG was superior to multiple doses in terms of both short-term (6-week) and long-term (12-week) protection. WHAT ARE THE IMPLICATIONS FOR PUBLIC HEALTH PRACTICE? These studies provide a theoretical basis for enhancing the immune strategy of tuberculosis vaccines and contribute to the development of combined BCG and subunit protein vaccines.