DNA Vaccine: An insight

Abstract

Abstract

Referred to as third generation vaccines by researchers, DNA vaccines are the most promising vaccines in combating the pathogenesis of many infectious pathogens. DNA vaccines involve the insertion of gene encoded plasmid DNA which is purified directly into the host in order to induce an immune response. In addition to traditional intradermal, oral mechanisms of administration, novel gene gun techniques are utilized. Being able to induce both the humoral and cellular arms of the adaptive immune response, DNA vaccines harbor many advantages in comparison with the traditional vaccines. Although currently available for the veterinary use to some extent, there is growing health and safety concerns over the implementation of DNA vaccines in human vaccine requirements. This review explores the composition, mechanisms and pros and cons of DNA vaccines. The future is enlightening for the success in clinical trials of DNA vaccines with hopes to implementing better standards of vaccination.