Viral Vector Vaccines
Viral vector based-vaccines use modified viruses to carry target genetic material into human cells from the pathogen being vaccinated against. These vector viruses are inactivated or altered so as not to cause major disease themselves.
Once inside human cells, the vectors will hijack the host cellular machinery to produce proteins (antigens) from the inserted target genetic material. These proteins are the primary target for antibodies that will neutralize the infection and be maintained to provide immunity. There is the added benefit of a robust immune response mounted against the antigens presented by the vector itself which can result in more robust acquired immunity.
One of the most common vectors being utilized for COVID-19 vaccines are adenoviruses. But many other viruses may be utilized, each with a unique set of features and related risks.
One of the major benefits of viral vectors is the ability to induce the body's cellular immune responses in addition to the antibody response needed to confer immunity. This generally results in a more robust immunity. The major drawback is that previous exposure to the vector may result in pre-existing immunity that hinders the vaccine's efficacy.
Once inside human cells, the vectors will hijack the host cellular machinery to produce proteins (antigens) from the inserted target genetic material. These proteins are the primary target for antibodies that will neutralize the infection and be maintained to provide immunity. There is the added benefit of a robust immune response mounted against the antigens presented by the vector itself which can result in more robust acquired immunity.
One of the most common vectors being utilized for COVID-19 vaccines are adenoviruses. But many other viruses may be utilized, each with a unique set of features and related risks.
One of the major benefits of viral vectors is the ability to induce the body's cellular immune responses in addition to the antibody response needed to confer immunity. This generally results in a more robust immunity. The major drawback is that previous exposure to the vector may result in pre-existing immunity that hinders the vaccine's efficacy.
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