DNA vaccination

DNA vaccines ( engl. DNA vaccines ) denote vaccines containing genes. This type of vaccination with DNA plasmids generally used which contain one or more genes from foreign proteins. The gene is expressed in the cells of the vaccinee, the resulting protein is subsequently proteolyzed in the cell peptides that are presented on MHC I and to a lesser extent to MHC II. Membrane proteins (in addition to MHC presentation of the peptides ) presented on the cell surface. Through this process, an asymptomatic infection in the host body is simulated on a cellular level that triggers an immune response. DNA vaccines can be injected intramuscularly or administered bioballistisch.

The main advantages of this technique are the easy and cost-effective production by fermentation, biological and chemical stability, ease of adjustment of the vaccines as well as an activation of cellular immunity.

One conceivable disadvantages of possible increased tumor formation due to the activation of oncogenes or deactivating tumor- suppressing genes by random insertion of DNA into the genome, a theoretically possible destabilization of chromosomes, a possible transfer of antibiotic resistance in bacteria and the possible induction of autoimmune diseases against which apply DNA. So far there is no evidence for the formation of tumors or lupus erythematosus after plasmid immunization in vivo.

Developments

The first DNA vaccines have been tested in HIV-positive patients, more tests found on healthy place to test vaccines against HIV. Although the immune response in humans likely to be weak, was in use with the recombinant vectors and adjuvants have a protective effect in primates.

In addition to HIV vaccine research is also reinforced by influenza vaccines. 2002, researchers on the assumption that DNA vaccines could provide a first measure against influenza A/H5N1-Stämme with high mortality, but presented also found that the DNA vaccination alone only a very limited protection against the pandemic for mice HK / 483 strain offered.

• Vaccination
• Therapy