Mucosal immunity elicited by DNA vaccines

The induction of mucosal immunity could improve vaccine prophylaxis by preventing pathogens from colonizing their host. As a consequence, the delivery of vaccines to mucosal surfaces has become a crucial issue. DNA vaccines, administered by intra-muscular injection or by particle bombardment of the epidermis, have revolutionized vaccine research in the last few years, but these routes of delivery are unlikely to elicit mucosal immunity efficiently. This article reviews the progress being made towards meeting the vital challenge of efficiently eliciting mucosal immunity through the appropriate delivery of DNA vaccines.