Advancements in Human Vaccine Development: From Traditional to Modern Approaches

Abstract

Vaccinology, the scientific discipline focused on vaccines, has evolved from combating infectious diseases to addressing a wide array of a broad spectrum of health concerns, including autoimmune disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and allergies, with promising therapeutic vaccines for cancer utilizing tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and adoptive cell therapy, like chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T-cells), CAR-natural killer cells (CAR-NK cells), and CAR-macrophages (CAR-M), as well as necrotic and necroptotic cancer cells. Additionally, ongoing research endeavors aim to develop anti-addiction vaccines. This chapter offers a comprehensive exploration of vaccinology, encompassing fundamental immunity concepts, the role of adjuvants, and various vaccine types. It traces the evolution of vaccine development from traditional methods to modern innovations like messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines, exemplified by those developed for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which offer rapid adaptability to emerging variants. The significance of measuring neutralizing antibodies in assessing vaccine efficacy and effectiveness, which is crucial for guiding epidemic responses, is underscored. By delving into historical and contemporary developments, addressing current challenges, and envisioning future directions, this chapter fosters a deeper understanding of vaccinology and encourages critical reflection on innovative solutions to global health challenges.