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DNA Vaccines: What are They?

© Neal Rolfe Chamberlain

DNA goes into our cells and our own cells then make the protein from DNA vaccine. The protein is foreign to our bodies and our immune system then is activated to eliminate this protein. By mobilizing our immune system ahead of time, our bodies will be ready and able to eliminate the disease-causing organisms before they can cause disease.

DNA vaccines have several advantages over the vaccines we currently use. DNA is very stable and does not require refrigeration. No more "cold chain" would be needed. The DNA vaccines give life-long protection and do not require multiple injections throughout our lives. Many different vaccines can be given at the same time eliminating multiple visits and injections.

Now remember, patience is important in this venture. No DNA vaccines are currently approved for use in humans. Within the next five to 15 years, these new vaccines could be used if proven to be safe and effective in humans. Then maybe vaccinations will become inexpensive and more widely used.

For more information on DNA-vaccines:

The entire report of the 25 scientists titled The Scientific Future of DNA for Immunization (1997) is a pdf file and available on line. You will need Acrobat Reader to view pdf files.

The DNA Vaccine Web has a frequently asked questions file you may want to see.

The DNA Vaccine Web is mainly for researchers involved in DNA vaccines but you may really enjoy learning some of the details of DNA vaccines.

Take Care and Think Microbiologically!