Stanford scientists have developed a prototype for a topical vaccine that may eliminate the need for injections.
They modified a specific bacterium with a gene fragment of tetanus toxin. Then, the researchers applied it to mice and found that it produced an immune response similar to that of a vaccine.
They will soon test the vaccine in monkeys. Ultimately, it could make immunizations cheaper and more accessible around the world.
How does the topical vaccine work?
scientists at the Stanford School of Medicine have developed an experimental topical vaccine using a bacterium that naturally lives on human skin, paving the way for needle-free protection against a wide range of toxins and pathogens https://t.co/b5wNhhNWTg
— Stanford School of Medicine (@StanfordMed) December 11, 2024
The development of topical vaccines began with the discovery that harmless Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria can trigger an immune response.
Specifically, it can trigger a strong response to the accumulation associated protein (Aap). The immune system “learns” from Aap and then produces appropriate antibodies.
Surprisingly, it triggers antibodies normally found in the nostrils of mice, called immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibodies.
IgA fights off respiratory pathogens that cause the common cold, flu, and COVID-19.
In response, Stanford School of Medicine said researchers studied the practical applications of the reaction.
The researchers bioengineered Staphylococcus epidermidis bacteria and then applied them to mice over a six-week period.
It produced extremely high levels of antibodies against tetanus toxin. The researchers then injected the toxin into both the experimental mice and normal mice.
Only mice that received the topical S epidermidis vaccine showed no symptoms.
Later, they used the same method to study diphtheria toxin and obtained similar results.
As a result, the researchers found that after two or three applications, antibodies were produced in mice.
What’s more, their experiments could lead to the creation of a topical vaccine, meaning you could apply it like an ointment, rather than injecting it.
“We all hate needles — everybody does,” said Dr. Michael Fischbach, a professor of bioengineering at Stanford University.
“I haven’t found anyone who doesn’t like the idea of using a cream instead of a drink.”
It could also make vaccination cheaper and simpler. Instead of waiting in line for a vaccine, you could just buy a dose and apply it.