What particular challenges do companies face when attempting to formulate DNA vaccines?
DNA vaccines offer many potential benefits when compared to earlier generation technologies. For example, a DNA vaccine does not have the safety issues presented by a live attenuated virus to an immunocompromised individual. In addition, DNA vaccines benefit from more economical manufacturing processes and can typically be stored without refrigeration. This feature makes a DNA vaccine easier and less expensive to handle and store; a major benefit for developing countries with limited resources. However, there are significant challenges faced in the development of DNA vaccines. In particular, efficacy for a DNA vaccine is dependent on the ability to achieve intracellular delivery of the DNA plasmid payload. When injected by conventional syringe either subcutaneously or intramuscular, tissue cell membranes are a significant barrier to uptake of the DNA material. The implementation of drug-delivery technologies to DNA vaccine development is showing significant benefits to efficacy. Electr
