A novel subunit vaccine for influenza, using only hemagglutinin protein, demonstrates weak immunogenicity in initial trials. Which adjuvant-related mechanism would MOST improve the vaccine's efficacy?

💡 Explanation

Adjuvants enhance vaccine efficacy primarily by activating antigen-presenting cells (APCs) like dendritic cells, which then prime T cells and B cells. This is because stimulation via APCs increases co-stimulatory signals and cytokine production, therefore promoting a stronger adaptive immune response rather than direct viral neutralization or Treg activation.

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