Intranasal COVID-19 Vaccines: Advances and Clinical Hurdles in Nanotechnology Approaches

What is it about?

This review explored the development of nasal SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, highlighting the shift from viral vectored and protein-based vaccines to nanobased intranasal vaccines. It emphasized the potential of nanotechnology in creating noninvasive vaccines that enhance mucosal immune responses. It focused on various nanoparticle-based delivery systems, such as lipid, polymeric, and inorganic nanoparticles, to improve vaccine stability and controlled release. The review identified challenges in clinical application and emphasized the need for further research to enhance systemic immunogenicity and vaccine efficacy. Findings indicated that nanobased intranasal vaccines could induce both systemic and local immune responses, although some vaccines showed significant protective effects without measurable serum neutralizing antibodies. The review also highlighted the necessity of optimizing protein integration into nanoparticles and the potential for personalized vaccines tailored to specific pathogens.

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Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Why is it important?

The review addresses the urgent need for more effective and accessible vaccination strategies against respiratory infections, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. By focusing on nanobased intranasal vaccines, the review explores a noninvasive approach that could offer a potent defense against pathogens, thereby significantly contributing to global health security. The utilization of nanotechnology in vaccine delivery not only enhances the stability and efficacy of vaccines but also overcomes the limitations of traditional mucosal vaccines. This approach has the potential to revolutionize the way respiratory infectious diseases are managed and prevented, paving the way for rapid vaccine development and distribution in future pandemics. Key Takeaways: 1. Nanobased intranasal vaccines leverage nanoparticle delivery systems to enhance vaccine stability, mucosal adhesion, and controlled release, addressing the limitations of conventional vaccines and offering a robust strategy against respiratory infections. 2. The study highlights the need for further research to optimize nanobased vaccine formulations, focusing on improving safety, efficacy, and systemic immunogenicity, while also exploring combination therapies for enhanced protective effects. 3. Despite promising results in animal models, challenges remain in preventing virus transmission to sentinel organisms, underscoring the necessity for continued evaluation of the immune responses and potential development of personalized vaccines tailored to specific pathogens.