Human Genetics

Genetic vaccines use genetic material to trigger an immune response against a pathogen, instead of using inactivated viruses or proteins. They introduce the pathogen’s genetic code into the body, prompting cells to produce the target antigen and stimulate immunity.

There are three main types:

1. DNA vaccines: Use plasmids of DNA to encode a pathogen’s protein.

2. mRNA vaccines: Use messenger RNA to encode a protein, which cells then produce to trigger immunity.

3. Viral vector vaccines: Use a harmless virus to deliver the genetic material. Genetic vaccines offer rapid development, safety, and scalability, though challenges like delivery methods and long-term immunity remain.