The use of edible plants for the production and delivery of vaccine
proteins could provide an economical alternative to
fermentation systems. Genes encoding bacterial and viral
antigens are faithfully expressed in edible tissues to form
immunogenic proteins. Studies in animals and humans have shown
that ingestion of transgenic plants containing vaccine
proteins causes production of antigen-specific antibodies in
serum and mucosal secretions. In general, the technology is
limited by low expression levels for nuclear-integrated
transgenes, but recent progress in plant organelle
transformation shows promise for enhanced expression. The
stability and immunogenicity of orally delivered antigens vary
greatly, which necessitates further study on protein
engineering to enhance mucosal delivery. These issues are
discussed with regard to the further development of
plant-based vaccine technology.
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