Science and Technology Daily, Beijing, June 9 It is well known that the vaccine needs to be kept in cold storage, generally at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius is safe, at other temperatures, the protein contained in the vaccine The disintegration caused the vaccine to lose its activity, and millions of children around the world missed the vaccine, but this situation is expected to become history now. According to the physicist organization network reported on the 8th, British scientists skillfully put a layer of silica “coat” on the protein, even if heated to 100 degrees Celsius or stored at room temperature for up to three years, the vaccine structure is still intact.
The University of Bath and the University of Newcastle developed this “siliconization” technology, and the research was published in the latest issue of the “Science Report” magazine.
In the latest study, the researchers mailed two copies of tetanus vaccine from the University of Bath to Newcastle University (300 miles between the two places. Two days). One vaccine “wears a silica coat”; the other is unprotected. The non-toxic material silica is the main component of sand.
It was found that the “silicified” vaccine injected into mice successfully triggered an immune response, indicating that the vaccine was active; while the vaccine without protection was injected into mice. Triggered immune response, indicating that the vaccine has been damaged during transportation.
Dr. Issel Satabava, the head of the latest research and the Department of Chemistry at the University of Bath, said: “The research results are exciting, this new technology not only protects The protein structure of the vaccine has also retained its function-immunogenicity.”
Satabava explained: “Our current focus is on tetanus vaccine, Tetanus vaccine is part of the DTP vaccine (diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough) that children are vaccinated. Next, we will work to develop heat-stable diphtheria and pertussis vaccines. Finally, we hope to’silicify’ the entire DTP triple vaccine so that every No child can rely on coldIn case of chain transportation, vaccinate DTP vaccine. “
Satabawa said that the “silicified” vaccine can be used in humans within 5 to 15 years, and she hopes that this “silicified” technology will eventually be used for storage and For the transportation of all children’s vaccines and other protein products such as antibodies and enzymes, “Our aim is to use heat-stable vaccines and reduce dependence on the cold chain to eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases in low-income countries. ”
It is reported that as a result of exposure to sub-optimal temperatures, up to 50% of vaccines are discarded before use. According to World Health Organization data, there were 19.4 million in 2018 The baby was not vaccinated with a routine vaccine.
(The original title silica “overcoat” makes the vaccine resistant to Baidu high temperatures)