Exosome-Based COVID-19 Vaccine

Methods Mol Biol. 2023:2668:301-311. doi: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3203-1_20.

Abstract

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) enable cell-to-cell communication and, by delivering antigens, can stimulate the immune response strongly. Approved in use SARS-CoV-2 vaccine, candidates immunize with the viral spike protein delivered via viral vectors, translated by injected mRNAs, or as a pure protein. Here, we outline a novel methodological approach for generating SARS-CoV-2 vaccine using exosome that delivers antigens from the SARS-CoV-2 structural proteins. Engineered EVs can be loaded with viral antigens, thus acting as antigens presenting EVs, eliciting strong and targeted CD8(+) T cell and B cell, offering a unique approach to vaccine development. Engineered EVs thus portray a safe, adaptable, and effective approach for a virus-free vaccine development.

Keywords: Exosome-based vaccine; Exosomes; Extracellular vesicles; Ultracentrifugation.

MeSH terms

  • Antigens / metabolism
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / metabolism
  • COVID-19* / metabolism
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Exosomes* / metabolism
  • Extracellular Vesicles* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • SARS-CoV-2 / genetics
  • Viral Proteins / metabolism

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Antigens
  • Viral Proteins