Rotavirus virus-like particles (RV-VLPs) represent a novel strategy for development of a rotavirus subunit vaccine. In this study, RF 8-2/6/7-VLPs with rotavirus VP8 protein (amino acid 1-241 of VP4) fused to the amino terminal end of a truncated VP2, were evaluated for their immunogenic and protective properties. A single intramuscular dose of, either 2 or 20 microg, RF 8-2/6/7-VLPs alone or combined with a potent adjuvant poly[di(carboxylatophenoxy)]phosphazene] (PCPP) induced rotavirus-specific serum IgG and IgA, fecal IgG titers that were enhanced 5-90-fold by adjuvant. Passive protective immunity was achieved in offspring to dams vaccinated with 2 and 20 microg RV-VLPs in presence of adjuvant and 20 microg RV-VLP without adjuvant.