Mucosal immunization: a realistic alternative

Hum Vaccin. 2010 Dec;6(12):978-1006. doi: 10.4161/hv.6.12.13142. Epub 2010 Dec 1.

Abstract

Most infections occur at or through mucosal surfaces. Despite this knowledge, current vaccination practices rely predominantly on parenteral administration with only a few vaccines being registered for administion by the mucosal route. Whilst mucosal immunization brings many advantages, the lack of reliable delivery systems has been a major drawback to date. With the recent advances in delivery system technology and the improved understanding of site specific mucosal immune mechanisms, mucosal immunization offers an exciting alternative vaccination strategy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Mucosal
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Mucosal*
  • Immunization / methods*
  • Vaccines / administration & dosage*
  • Vaccines / immunology*

Substances

  • Vaccines