Alternative Methods of Vaccine Delivery: An Overview of Edible and Intradermal Vaccines

Figure 1

Alternative methods of vaccine delivery. Development of rationally designed vaccines starts with the identification of the gene encoding for the protective antigenic protein(s). Subsequently, the antigen(s) can be incorporated into different edible systems, as plants, algae, insects, or yeasts, or used for intradermal formulations to induce a mucosal protective response. Following the administration of the edible vaccine and the subsequent passage of the antigen(s) through the M cell compartment delivering it to dendritic cells, the individual’s immune system triggers a response leading also to specific IgA production and secretion. Similarly, patches with coated microprojections or biodegradable needles activate Langerhans cells and dermal dendritic cells in the skin dermis. These cells capture and present the antigen(s) to T and B lymphocytes, triggering both a mucosal and a systemic immunity.