Lysosomal targeting and genetic/DNA vaccines development

Extract: In immune responses, externally acquired antigens such as those from bacteria are processed by antigen-presenting cells and presented in the complex with MHC II (major histocompatibility complex class II) to CD4+ T cells. Activation of CD4+ cells leads to cell-mediated inflammatory responses and B cell activation/antibody production. Internally synthesized antigens in antigen-presenting cells such as viral proteins form complexes with MHC I molecules. These complexes activate CD8+ cytotoxic T cells and lead to the destruction of virus-infested cells. The DNA vaccine, or as it is sometimes referred to a genetic vaccine, is a new generation of vaccines. Different from the traditional vaccines such as inactivated bacteria, viruses, or recombinant proteins, a DNA vaccine contains the gene that encodes the immunogen from the viruses, bacteria, parasites, or tumors. After a DNA vaccine is delivered into humans, the gene will be internally translated into the immunogen which would invoke the protective immunity against future attacks by the viruses, bacteria, parasites, or tumors.