With reference to recent developments regarding ‘Recombinant Vector Vaccines’, consider the following statements: 1. Genetic engineering is applied in the development of these vaccines. 2. Bacteria and viruses are used as vectors. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Explanation
Statement 1 is Correct: Genetic engineering is fundamental to the development of recombinant vector vaccines. This process involves isolating the gene that codes for a specific antigen (a protein that triggers an immune response) from a pathogen and inserting it into the genetic material of a harmless carrier, known as a vector. Unlike recombinant protein vaccines (like Hepatitis B) where the antigen is produced in a lab, recombinant vector vaccines use the vector to deliver the genetic instructions directly into the human body.
Statement 2 is Correct: Both viruses and bacteria can serve as vectors in these vaccines. Viral vectors, such as Adenoviruses (used in the AstraZeneca/Covishield COVID-19 vaccine) or the Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (used in Ebola vaccines), are common. Bacterial vectors, such as attenuated strains of Salmonella or Mycobacterium bovis (BCG), are also used in research and development to deliver antigens and stimulate a robust immune response.