MIT researchers have made a significant discovery in the field of vaccine development. They have found that a type of nanoparticle called a metal organic framework (MOF) can provoke a strong immune response, acting as an adjuvant to boost the immune system’s response to viral or bacterial proteins. This finding could potentially lead to the development of more effective vaccines.
Traditionally, vaccines have included adjuvants made of aluminum salts or other molecules that stimulate a nonspecific immune response. However, the MIT researchers have shown that MOFs, specifically a type called ZIF-8, can activate the innate immune system through toll-like receptors (TLRs), which are cell proteins that play a crucial role in the body’s defense against pathogens.
To test their hypothesis, the researchers created an experimental vaccine using ZIF-8 particles encapsulating the receptor-binding protein (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These particles are small enough to enter the body’s lymph nodes directly or through immune cells. Once inside the cells, the MOFs break down and release the viral proteins, which then activate TLRs and stimulate the innate immune response.
The study showed that mice vaccinated with ZIF-8 particles carrying the viral protein had a much stronger immune response compared to mice that received the protein alone. RNA sequencing of cells from the lymph nodes revealed that the TLR-7 pathway was strongly activated, leading to increased production of cytokines and other molecules involved in inflammation.
The researchers believe that understanding how MOFs enhance the adjuvant immune response could be instrumental in designing new vaccines. By utilizing nanoparticles with specific chemical moieties that aid in antigen delivery and activate particular immune pathways, vaccine potency could be enhanced.
While more research is needed to evaluate the safety and scalability of MOFs for large-scale manufacturing, the findings from this study could guide researchers in developing similar nanoparticles for subunit vaccines. Subunit vaccines, which consist of an antigen and an adjuvant, are usually easier and cheaper to produce than mRNA vaccines. This could potentially increase vaccine access, especially in times of a pandemic.
The research was funded by Ibn Khaldun Fellowships for Saudi Arabian Women and the Koch Institute Support Grant from the U.S. National Cancer Institute. The study was published in Science Advances and was led by MIT postdoc Shahad Alsaiari, along with senior authors Ana Jaklenec, Robert Langer, and Dan Barouch.
This groundbreaking research opens up new possibilities for vaccine development. By harnessing the power of nanoparticles, scientists may be able to create more effective vaccines that can generate a strong immune response. This could have a significant impact on global health, particularly during times of widespread disease outbreaks. With further research and development, these nanoparticles could revolutionize the field of immunization and help protect populations against a wide range of infectious diseases.