Enhanced Transdermal Immunization via Solid-in-Oil Nanodispersions Incorporating Dendritic Cell-Targeting Peptide

Area of Science:

• Nanotechnology
• Immunology
• Dermatology

Background:

• Transdermal immunization offers a needle-free vaccination approach.
• Challenges include efficient antigen delivery and immune activation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a solid-in-oil (S/O) nanodispersion for transdermal immunization.
• To evaluate the efficacy of a dendritic cell-targeting peptide (HR8) in enhancing immune responses.

Main Methods:

• Developed an S/O nanodispersion incorporating ovalbumin (OVA), an adjuvant, and the HR8 peptide.
• Characterized particle size and stability.
• Assessed antigen delivery and skin irritation in vitro and in vivo (C57BL/6N mice).
• Measured OVA-specific IgG and IgG subclasses.

Main Results:

• Achieved optimal particle size (<200 nm) and stability for 90 days.
• Demonstrated enhanced antigen delivery with minimal skin irritation.
• HR8 peptide increased OVA-specific IgG responses by ~1.5-fold.
• HR8 peptide increased IgG2c levels by ~2.5-fold, indicating a Th1-biased response.

Conclusions:

• The HR8 peptide-loaded S/O nanodispersion enhances transdermal antigen delivery and immunogenicity.
• This system shows potential for non-invasive, patient-friendly immunization strategies.