Unlock the potential of DNA vaccines! This review examines the immunological mechanisms, applications, and optimization strategies for DNA vaccines, a promising approach to elicit both humoral and cellular immune responses. Traditional vaccines primarily induce antibody responses, but intracellular pathogens require cell-mediated immunity. DNA vaccines, containing the gene for the antigen of interest, can generate both types of immune responses. This review elucidates the mechanisms by which DNA vaccines elicit these responses. It provides an overview of potential applications in preclinical models, ranging from infectious diseases to cancer. DNA vaccines offer a versatile platform for vaccination, particularly against intracellular pathogens. By focusing on the mechanisms of immune response and strategies for optimization, this review provides valuable insights for researchers and clinicians in the field. Further development and refinement of DNA vaccine technology hold promise for addressing unmet medical needs.
Published in the Annual Review of Immunology, this review fits directly within the journal's scope by providing an in-depth examination of DNA vaccines and their immunological mechanisms. By covering the application and optimization of this technology, the article provides valuable insights for immunologists and vaccine researchers. This aligns with the journal's mission to present comprehensive reviews of cutting-edge topics in immunology.