To optimize previous candidate DNA vaccine, a cis-expression plasmid DNA encoding two genes, human IL-2 and multiple-epitopes genes of foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) was constructed with internal ribosome entry site (IRES) from encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV) and intramuscularly inoculated into mice at 1-week interval. Specific antibodies in serum and cytokines (IL-2, IL-4 and IFN-gamma) from splenocytes were detected by indirect ELISA. Splenocytes proliferation rate was determined by a standard 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl) 2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The results showed that higher specific antibody, proliferate rate and cytokines were induced by plasmid DNA cis-expression with IL-2 compared to non-cis-expression plasmid DNA. Another series of mice were inoculated with plasmid DNA and boosted with antigenic protein. Specific antibody, proliferation rate and cytokines were induced significantly higher than those of mice immunized with protein or plasmid DNA only. However, only the cis-expression plasmid DNA elicited higher neutralization antibody in mice and provided one third protection against homologous virus in guinea pigs. In conclusion, cis-expression strategy with IL-2 up-regulated specific immunological response and provide protection against homologous virus.