A Comprehensive review on Pharmacokinetic Studies of Vaccines: Impact of delivery route, carrier-and its modulation on immune response

Environ Res. 2023 Nov 1;236(Pt 2):116823. doi: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116823. Epub 2023 Aug 3.

Abstract

The lack of knowledge about the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of vaccines makes former biopharmaceutical optimization difficult. This was shown during the COVID-19 immunization campaign, where gradual booster doses were introduced.. Thus, understanding vaccine ADME and its effects on immunization effectiveness could result in a more logical vaccine design in terms of formulation, method of administration, and dosing regimens. Herein, we will cover the information available on vaccine pharmacokinetics, impacts of delivery routes and carriers on ADME, utilization and efficiency of nanoparticulate delivery vehicles, impact of dose level and dosing schedule on the therapeutic efficacy of vaccines, intracellular and endosomal trafficking and in vivo fate, perspective on DNA and mRNA vaccines, new generation sequencing and mathematical models to improve cancer vaccination and pharmacology, and the reported toxicological study of COVID-19 vaccines. Altogether, this review will enhance the reader's understanding of the pharmacokinetics of vaccines and methods that can be implied in delivery vehicle design to improve the absorption and distribution of immunizing agents and estimate the appropriate dose to achieve better immunogenic responses and prevent toxicities.

Keywords: Cellular permeation; Dose; Drug delivery; Intracellular trafficking; Pharmacokinetics; Vaccines.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • COVID-19* / prevention & control
  • Humans
  • Immunity
  • Vaccination
  • Vaccines*

Substances

  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Vaccines