Carter, D., et al. The success of toll-like receptor 4 based vaccine adjuvants. Vaccine, 2025 Jun 25, 61:127413.

Carter, D., et al. The success of toll-like receptor 4 based vaccine adjuvants. Vaccine, 2025 Jun 25, 61:127413. PMID: 40570747

• This paper reviews the development and mechanisms of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) agonist-based vaccine adjuvants, emphasizing their success in enhancing immune responses for various vaccines. A key focus is on adjuvants incorporating QS-21, a saponin derived from Quillaja saponaria, known for its ability to activate antigen-presenting cells via the Syk kinase pathway and induce caspase-mediated maturation of IL-18. 
• QS-21 is a critical component of liposomal adjuvants such as AS01 and is also present in ISCOMATRIX, playing a vital role in eliciting strong cellular and humoral immunity. Its capacity to stimulate cytokine production and enhance antigen presentation underscores its importance in advancing vaccine efficacy. The paper highlights QS-21’s mechanistic contribution to potent adjuvant formulations and their role in improving protection against diseases like malaria, herpes zoster, RSV, and others.
• The paper discusses adjuvant composition in the context of various vaccine adjuvants, emphasizing the components that contribute to their immunostimulatory effects. 

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