Abstract

AN OVERVIEW ON EDIBLE VACCINE: A POTENTIAL PROSPECT FOR TREATMENT OF INFECTIOUS DISEASES

Prangya Paramita Pati* and Jyotiprabha Acharya

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Abstract

Edible vaccines represent a promising and innovative approach to immunization. Edible vaccines are produced by genetically engineering plants to express antigens from pathogens. When consumed, these plants stimulate the immune system, eliciting an immune response against the target pathogen. The mechanism of edible vaccines involves the ingestion of plant-based materials containing the target antigen. Once ingested, the antigen is processed by the digestive system, and immune cells in the gut mucosa are activated. These immune cells, particularly antigen-presenting cells, capture the antigen and present it to other immune cells, initiating a specific immune response. Over time, this response leads to the production of antibodies and memory cells, providing immunity against the targeted pathogen. Edible vaccines have shown promise in various diseases, including gastrointestinal infections, such as cholera and rotavirus, as well as viral infections like hepatitis B. They have also been explored as a potential strategy for diseases like influenza and even some cancers. This unique delivery system offers several advantages, including ease of administration, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced accessibility, particularly in resource-limited regions. This paper explores the mechanism of edible vaccines and provides an overview of their application in various diseases. Continued research and development in this field hold the potential to revolutionize how we prevent and control infectious diseases worldwide.

Keywords: Edible vaccine, immunization, disease, plant, antigen- antibodies.