Engineering DNA vaccines against infectious diseases

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Vaccinology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Vaccine engineering for infectious diseases is complex, with issues in specificity, efficacy, stability, and toxicity.
• Recombinant technologies have advanced vaccine development, mitigating risks like virulence reversion and enhancing seroconversion.
• Despite progress, DNA vaccines face challenges in immunogenicity and lack regulatory approval for human use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of engineered/recombinant DNA vaccines against infectious diseases.
• To highlight recent advances, clinical translations, and ongoing research developments.
• To discuss challenges hindering further progression in DNA vaccine development.

Main Methods:

• Review of recombinant DNA-based subunit vaccines.
• Analysis of DNA vaccine internalization, processing, and immune enhancement via adjuvants.
• Examination of manufacturing, engineering, safety, stability, and delivery of DNA vaccines.

Main Results:

• Recombinant technologies have improved both amino acid-based and DNA-based vaccines.
• Difficulties in enhancing immunogenic properties have led to a plateau in DNA vaccine interest.
• No DNA vaccines are currently approved by regulatory bodies for human use, though some exist for animal use.

Conclusions:

• DNA vaccines hold promise for infectious diseases, but challenges in immunogenicity and delivery persist.
• Further research is needed to optimize DNA vaccine design, manufacturing, and clinical application.
• This review aims to stimulate innovation and inspire further research in the field of DNA vaccine development.