Tularemia vaccine development: paralysis or progress?

Abstract

<i>Francisella tularensis</i> (<i>Ft</i>) is a gram-negative intercellular pathogen and category A biothreat agent. However, despite 15 years of strong government investment and intense research focused on the development of a US Food and Drug Administration-approved vaccine against <i>Ft</i>, the primary goal remains elusive. This article reviews research efforts focused on developing an <i>Ft</i> vaccine, as well as a number of important factors, some only recently recognized as such, which can significantly impact the development and evaluation of <i>Ft</i> vaccine efficacy. Finally, an assessment is provided as to whether a US Food and Drug Administration-approved <i>Ft</i> vaccine is likely to be forthcoming and the potential means by which this might be achieved.