Effects of targeted fusion anti-caries DNA vaccine pGJA-P/VAX in rats with caries

Our previously prophylactic studies have proved that the anti-caries DNA vaccine pGJA-P/VAX could generate effective immune response by intramuscular (i.m.) and intranasal (i.n.) administration in rats without caries. In the present, we determine whether it also could produce efficacy in rats with caries. By immunized with pGJA-P/VAX, rats were elicited both significantly higher anti-Streptococcus mutans serum IgG and salivary SIgA responses, compared to those with pVAX1. Correspondingly, rats immunized with pGJA-P/VAX via i.n. displayed significantly fewer enamel, dentinal lesions compared to those with pVAX1 via i.n. However, there was no significant difference in dental caries lesions between pGJA-P/VAX (i.m.) and pVAX1 (i.m.). These findings suggest that DNA vaccination via i.n., with bupivacaine delivery system, could be a promising alternatives for slowing down caries development in rat models.