HBV S epitopes screening and ELISpot analysis of IFN-γ secretion in mouse splenocytes of each immunization group.

<p>(<b>A</b>) HBV S epitopes were screened by IFN-γ ELISpot analysis. Actual sample wells of HBS-specific ASC spots. (<b>B</b>–<b>D</b>) HBV peptide-specific ASC frequency in each group. Data represent the average of spot-forming cells (SFCs) per million splenocytes from six mice/group plus the standard error. <b>B</b>:Splenocytes were collected 10 days after the first immunization and the number of IFN-γ secreting cells generated in response to S peptides; <b>C–D</b>: Splenocytes were collected 2 weeks after the last immunization and the number of IFN-γ secreting cells generated in response to PreS1 and S peptide pool stimuli respectively. Statistical differences between groups were determined, and differences are shown as *<i>p</i><0.05 and **<i>p</i><0.01. (<b>E</b>) Sample wells with spots with mock or HBV peptide stimulation.