Techniques for eliciting mucosal immune response

Development of techniques for eliciting an immune response on mucosal surfaces is a relatively new area of clinical research. With the recognition of the existence of secretory immunity, independent of the systemic system, there was renewed interest in re-examining the conventional approach for optimal immunization techniques. A large body of data indicate that the majority of the secretory immunoglobulins and antibody produced to antigenic stimulation of mucosal surfaces is locally produced. Thus, antibody to C. albicans in the cervical or vaginal mucus has been shown to be of local origin and it predominantly belongs to the secretory IgA immunoglobulin class. The mechanism of antigen processing by the secretory surface leading to antibody formation remains a mystery, but it might be determined by the selective localization of antigens in the reticuloendothelial cells of the lamina propria, bronchi or small intestine. Usually application of antigen topically to the mucosal surface elicits local antibody formation to a greater extent than does parenteral immunization. On the other hand, a more pronounced systemic immune response is seen when the antigen is administered systemically. However, a number of other factors determine the quality and quantity of the immune response, e.g., the physical state of the antigen, live vs killed vaccine, dose, adjuvant, previous exposure to similar or cross-reacting antigens, and site of application of the antigen. These factors are discussed in the review. Recent observations suggest that cell mediated immunity is a component of the secretory immune system, and like the humoral mechanism, also may be partially compartmentalized.