ADVANCEMENT IN VACCINE DEVELOPMENT AND DELIVERY

Abstract

The field of vaccinology is undergoing rapid scientific advancements and an urgent need for faster, more effective immunization strategies. Traditional vaccines, including live attenuated, inactivated, toxoid and subunit vaccines, have played a crucial role in controlling infectious diseases for over a century. This chapter explores cutting-edge vaccine technologies, including nucleic acid based platforms (mRNA and DNA vaccines), peptide vaccines and protein-based formulations, highlighting their mechanisms, advantages and clinical implications. Recent breakthroughs in reverse vaccinology, CRISPR-based gene editing and nanoparticle-based delivery systems have revolutionized antigen discovery and vaccine development, enabling precision-targeted immunization strategies. The success of mRNA vaccines against COVID-19 has underscored the transformative potential of synthetic biology and genomics in accelerating vaccine production. Despite these advancements, challenges persist, including cold chain logistics, immune response variability, and global accessibility. This chapter critically examines these emerging technologies, offering a comprehensive perspective on the future of vaccines, where personalized immunization, rapid deployment and enhanced efficacy will define the next generation of disease prevention.