Flossing Paves New Path for Vaccine Delivery, Research Shows

Research from North Carolina State University suggests that dental floss could become a novel method for administering vaccines. This innovative approach targets the junctional epithelium, a specialized gum tissue that allows for robust immune responses at critical entry points for infections such as influenza and COVID-19.

In a study published in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering, scientists demonstrated that using unwaxed dental floss to apply a flu vaccine in laboratory mice resulted in a significantly stronger immune response compared to traditional oral methods. The results were comparable to those achieved with nasal vaccines, but without the associated risks. This method proved effective with various types of vaccines, including mRNA and protein-based formulations.

Harvinder Singh Gill, the lead researcher on the study, emphasized the importance of mucosal surfaces in combating infections. “Mucosal surfaces are important because they are a source of entry for pathogens, such as influenza and COVID,” he noted. “When a vaccine is given via the mucosal surface, antibodies are stimulated not only in the bloodstream but also on mucosal surfaces, enhancing the body’s ability to prevent infections.”

The junctional epithelium, which lines the deepest part of the gum and tooth pocket, is uniquely different from other epithelial tissues. While most epithelial barriers are designed to prevent pathogen entry, the junctional epithelium lacks these protective features. This allows immune cells to be released, creating a frontline defense against bacteria, which is crucial for oral health.

To explore the viability of this delivery method, researchers conducted experiments where they flossed mice with vaccine-coated dental floss. They compared the immune responses of mice receiving the peptide flu vaccine via the junctional epithelium to those receiving it through nasal application or under-the-tongue administration. The findings revealed that the junctional epithelium method produced superior antibody responses on mucosal surfaces.

The study further tested the delivery technique with three prominent vaccine classes: proteins, inactivated viruses, and mRNA. In each case, the results indicated robust antibody responses both in the bloodstream and across mucosal surfaces.

Interestingly, the timing of food and water intake following the flossing did not affect the immune response, suggesting a practical advantage for real-world applications.

Despite these promising findings, researchers acknowledge that many questions remain before this method can be considered for clinical use. Nonetheless, the potential for improved vaccine administration through flossing could represent a significant advancement in public health strategy.

As the world continues to navigate challenges posed by infectious diseases, innovations like this could play a crucial role in enhancing immunity at the points where pathogens most often enter the body.