Biomaterials at the interface of nano- and micro-scale vector-cellular interactions in genetic vaccine design

Abstract

The development of safe and effective vaccines for the prevention of elusive infectious diseases remains a public health priority. Immunization, characterized by adaptive immune responses to specific antigens, can be raised by an array of delivery vectors. However, current commercial vaccination strategies are predicated on the retooling of archaic technology. This review will discuss current and emerging strategies designed to elicit immune responses in the context of genetic vaccination. Selected strategies at the biomaterial-biological interface will be emphasized to illustrate the potential of coupling both fields towards a common goal.

Figure 1

General antigen processing. Upon entry into the body, a pathogenic organism encounters an antigen presenting cell (APC; dendritic cells or macrophages) and is internalized for intracellular processing. The APCs will present the antigen to T Helper Cells via major histocompatibility complexes (MHCs), which will then present either to naïve B cells or killer T cells. Subsequent activation steps result in either antibody production (humoral response) or cell mediated responses. After an ‘active’ phase of immunity, long-term (adaptive immunity) is established through the formation of memory B and T cells.

Figure 2

Generic design of a plasmid DNA vaccine.

Figure 3

Global gene therapy clinical trial information. Breakdown of trials by phase (A), vector (B), and year (C). Information gathered from pooled clinical data (http://www.wiley.com/legacy/wileychi/genmed/clinical/).