![Sample our Bioscience journals, sign in here to start your access, Latest two full volumes FREE to you for 14 days]({"type":"image" , "src" : "/sda/5925/TOC-Subject-Sample-2021-Bioscience.jpg"})
Abstract
Alternative approaches to the more traditional treatments of cancer, allergies and autoimmune diseases are being pursued. In addition, new modes of vaccination are under development. DNA delivery (genetic immunisation) is among the new technologies being investigated. This technique of injecting DNA induces both cellular and humoral responses, can lead to active protein production in vivo and is highly adaptable to the requirements of the condition being targeted. The genes can be delivered such that the immune responses can be polarised to either a Th1 or Th2 phenotype. The manipulation of the immune response can be accomplished by a variety of methods including mode of delivery and use of cytokine genes. Delivery of DNA directly to a host has a great deal of potential with regard to therapy and vaccine development. This potential is apparent based on the extensive number of patents which have been awarded over the past three years.