Oral vaccine and gene delivery systems must be engineered to withstand several different physiological environments, such as those present in the oral cavity, stomach, and jejunum, each of which exhibits varying pH levels and enzyme distributions. Additionally, these systems must be designed to ensure appropriate gastrointestinal absorption and tissue/cellular targeting properties. Although a plethora of nanomaterials are employed in the construction of these delivery devices, yeasts display unique characteristics, such a rigid cell wall and a resistance to harsh environments, that make them a prime vehicle for oral delivery of active pharmaceutical agents, vaccines, and genetic material. The ability of yeast cells to adhere to other cells or substrates is a crucial property that allows for more efficient gastrointestinal passage and subsequent systemic circulation, which has enabled substantial advancements in therapeutic efficacy in the pharmaceutical arena. Among several discoveries, the feasibility of yeast for vaccine and gene delivery is supported by findings from recent studies that yeasts have the ability to independently activate or deactivate separate but co-functioning portions of the immune system to synergistically ameliorate treatment effects. The purpose of this review is to present current information on the uses of yeast in the development of oral vaccines and gene delivery systems with an emphasis on yeast-related mechanisms of immune system activation, along with potential clinical implications in terms of disease targets and approaches to formulations.
ResultsThe oral route for delivery of vaccines and gene therapies offers a number of advantages, including ease of administration, manufacturing efficiency, and cost. However, before widespread adoption of this therapeutic modality can occur, factors such as adequate local and systemic availability of the therapeutic agent and accurate targeting of tissues and cells, are just some of the challenges that must be addressed. Yeasts-based delivery vehicles are excellent candidates for oral vaccine and oral gene therapies as many species possess cellular characteristics resulting in enhanced resistance to the harsh gastrointestinal (GI) environment and facilitated passage across the mucosal barrier. Yeast capsules can stimulate and modulate host immune responses, which is beneficial for vaccine efficacy. In addition, recombinant modification of yeasts to express cell penetrating proteins and injection mechanisms along with efficient cell adhering capabilities can potentially improve transfection rates of genetic material. In this literature review, we present evidence supporting the beneficial role yeast-based delivery systems can play in increasing the efficacy of oral administration of vaccines and gene therapies.