Genetic immunization is a simple method for eliciting an immune response.
To produce an immune reaction against a foreign protein usually requires purification of that protein, which is then injected into an animal. The isolation of enough pure protein is time-consuming and sometimes difficult. Here we report that such a response can also be elicited by introducing the gene encoding a protein directly into the skin of mice. This is achieved using a hand-held form of the biolistic system which can propel DNA-coated gold microprojectiles directly into cells in the living animal. Genetic immunization may be time- and labour-saving in producing antibodies and may offer a unique method for vaccination.
Tang
D C
DC
Department of Medicine, University of Texas, Dallas 75235-8573.
DeVit
M
M
Johnston
S A
SA
D000818:Animals; D000906:Antibodies / Q000097:blood; D000917:Antibody Formation; D000941:Antigens / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D004274:DNA, Recombinant; D005260:Female; D013006:Growth Hormone / Q000235:genetics* / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization / Q000379:methods*; D008156:Luciferases / Q000235:genetics; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D008810:Mice, Inbred C57BL; D008813:Mice, Inbred ICR; D010957:Plasmids; D012867:Skin; D014162:Transfection
D000906:Antibodies; D000941:Antigens; D004274:DNA, Recombinant; D013006:Growth Hormone; D008156:Luciferases