Nasal Nanovaccines for SARS-CoV-2 to Address COVID-19

Abstract

COVID-19 is still prevalent around the globe. Although some SARS-CoV-2 vaccines have been distributed to the population, the shortcomings of vaccines and the continuous emergence of SARS-CoV-2 mutant virus strains are a cause for concern. Thus, it is vital to continue to improve vaccines and vaccine delivery methods. One option is nasal vaccination, which is more convenient than injections and does not require a syringe. Additionally, stronger mucosal immunity is produced under nasal vaccination. The easy accessibility of the intranasal route is more advantageous than injection in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nanoparticles have been proven to be suitable delivery vehicles and adjuvants, and different NPs have different advantages. The shortcomings of the SARS-CoV-2 vaccine may be compensated by selecting or modifying different nanoparticles. It travels along the digestive tract to the intestine, where it is presented by GALT, tissue-resident immune cells, and gastrointestinal lymph nodes. Nasal nanovaccines are easy to use, safe, multifunctional, and can be distributed quickly, demonstrating strong prospects as a vaccination method for SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-2 variants, or SARS-CoV-n.

Attitude towards Intranasal Vaccines and Psychological Determinants: Effects on the General Population in Northern Italy

“…Intranasal vaccination against respiratory and gastrointestinal pathogens offers many practical and theoretical advantages [ 8 ]. The vaccine is delivered directly to the mucosal surface, and this should enhance mucosal cellular and humoral immune responses [ 9 , 10 ]. Individuals with direct experience with intranasal vaccination tend to favor it over needle injection, as it is considered less painful and less intrusive to the body, equally effective, and associated with fewer side effects [ 11 , 12 , 13 ].…”

Towards novel nano-based vaccine platforms for SARS-CoV-2 and its variants of concern: Advances, challenges and limitations

“…Antibodies present in the mucosal layer may neutralize protein subunit vaccines. Furthermore, the proteases found in the nose can also diminish their immunogenicity [ 245 ]. Novel vaccine delivery systems are necessary for nasal vaccination.…”

“…Novel vaccine delivery systems are necessary for nasal vaccination. NPs have greater controllability and safety as an alternative to biological vectors [ 245 ]. PLGA NPs, liposomes, and NP assemblies have the ability to stop the neutralization of antigens and improve cellular uptake.…”

Mapping the intersection of nanotechnology and SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19: A bibliometric analysis

“…Studies on COVID-19 vaccine and detection assay development will likely continue to be reported, and the generation of new vaccines and detection assays, particularly those for new and severe SARS-CoV-2 variants (e.g., Delta [48] and Omicron [49] ), will probably be emphasized. For example, the development of nasal-delivered nanovaccines [50] has gained much attention, and frugal diagnostic approaches, like RNA-extraction-free nanotechnology, for SARS-CoV-2 detection [51] also inspired considerable research interest.…”