Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) announced on Monday that it has developed a groundbreaking vaccine technology capable of providing long-lasting immunity with a single dose.
In collaboration with researchers from Incheon National University, the team created an adhesive adjuvant protein by combining mussel-derived adhesive proteins with immune-boosting peptides. This innovative protein can anchor vaccine components to specific locations within the body for extended periods.
The adhesive adjuvant protein forms nanoparticles with antigens, the key components of vaccines. These nanoparticles stimulate immune cells over a prolonged period, triggering a robust and sustained immune response. As a result, a single dose can provide immunity that lasts more than three times longer than conventional vaccines.
Professor Cha Hyung-jun of POSTECH emphasized that the mussel protein-based vaccine delivery system boasts excellent biocompatibility. He added that its potential for mass production makes it highly promising for practical applications.