Multilayered polyelectrolyte films: from active molecular delivery to vaccine therapy.
A paper in this issue discusses the use of multilayered polyelectrolyte films incorporating a hydrolytically degradable polymer for transcutaneous drug or vaccine delivery. Dried films could be deconstructed rapidly, and a model protein antigen (ovalbumin) and/or immunostimulatory molecules could be released with different kinetics. Both molecules could also be delivered to antigen-presenting cells in the skin (Langerhans cells). The described approach provides a new route for the storage of vaccines. Successful antigen processing and presentation to lymphocytes remain ongoing challenges before the concept can be used in the next generation of vaccines.
Voegel
Jean-Claude
JC
Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale, 11 rue Humann, Strasbourg, France. jean-claude.voegel@medecine.u-strasbg.fr
D000818:Animals; D045744:Cell Line, Tumor; D004337:Drug Carriers / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000633:toxicity; D004573:Electrolytes / Q000737:chemistry*; D006801:Humans; D016233:Immunotherapy, Active; D051379:Mice; D011108:Polymers / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000633:toxicity; D014157:Transcription Factors / Q000378:metabolism; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / Q000378:metabolism; D014612:Vaccines / Q000378:metabolism / Q000627:therapeutic use
D004337:Drug Carriers; D004573:Electrolytes; D011108:Polymers; D014157:Transcription Factors; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha; D014612:Vaccines