Peptide-based subunit nanovaccines

Curr Drug Deliv. 2011 May;8(3):282-9. doi: 10.2174/156720111795256192.

Abstract

Classical vaccines incorporating live or attenuated microorganisms possess several disadvantages and cannot be applied against cancer and some pathogens. Modern vaccines utilizing immunogenic subunits derived from a particular pathogen are able to overcome these obstacles but need a specific delivery system for their efficacy. Nanotechnology has opened a new window into these delivery methodologies. A nano-sized formulation of subunit vaccines has been proven to be very effective in inducing cellular and humoral immune responses. Here, we review a number of peptide vaccine delivery strategies based on nanoparticles composed of polymers, peptides, lipids, and inorganic materials.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Humans
  • Nanoparticles / administration & dosage
  • Nanoparticles / chemistry*
  • Nanotechnology / methods
  • Peptides / administration & dosage
  • Peptides / immunology*
  • Vaccines / administration & dosage
  • Vaccines / chemistry*
  • Vaccines / immunology

Substances

  • Peptides
  • Vaccines