Polymeric controlled delivery for immunization.
Current vaccine technology has limitations; for example, most vaccines require repeat administration for long-term protection, and immunity at mucosal surfaces is difficult to achieve. In animal models, polymeric controlled-release systems provide long-lasting systemic or mucosal immunoprotection, often after a single administration. Polymeric devices that deliver a controlled amount of antibody can provide passive immunity against genital herpes infections in mice; orally administered polymeric-microsphere-based vaccines produce enhanced immune responses in rodents and primates. These new delivery technologies have many desirable features, and so their use in humans could have a substantial impact on worldwide public health.
Kuntz
R M
RM
School of Chemical Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA. rmk14@cornell.edu
Saltzman
W M
WM
D000818:Animals; D001709:Biotechnology / Q000639:trends; D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D018928:Immunity, Mucosal; D007114:Immunization / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends*; D007116:Immunization, Passive; D051379:Mice; D011108:Polymers; D011634:Public Health; D014611:Vaccination; D014612:Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*
D003692:Delayed-Action Preparations; D011108:Polymers; D014612:Vaccines