Improving immune response to vaccines by selective targeting of epithelial regions with the Nanopatch (2010-2012)
Abstract
We aim to identify where exactly in the epithelium (skin and mucosa) vaccines need to be delivered to optimise the protective immune response. To achieve this, we will use the Nanopatch, a technology that allows precise targeting of biomolecules to particular layers of the skin; and the latest cellular imaging microscopy. The significance of this work is that it will allow us to better understand the immunological and physical environment of the epithelium so that we can target the delivery of vaccines or drugs to key cell populations. The ultimate outcome will be the development of more effective vaccination technologies that deliver vaccines to the immune cells more efficiently than conventional injection with needle and syringe.
