How does Lactococcus lactis protect the oral vaccine from digestion?

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Lactococcus lactis Encapsulation Shields Oral Vaccine from Digestive Acids

Researchers have developed an oral vaccine for fish that utilizes the bacterium Lactococcus lactis to protect the vaccine's virus-like particles from degradation by stomach acid. This protective encapsulation allows the vaccine to reach the fish's intestines intact, where it can then trigger an immune response. This novel delivery method is crucial for effectively vaccinating young fish, which are too small for traditional injection methods and face near 100 per cent mortality rates when infected with certain viruses.
Encapsulation Mechanism for Digestive Protection

The oral vaccine employs virus-like particles, which mimic the structure of the target pathogen without containing infectious genetic material. These particles are then enclosed within Lactococcus lactis. This bacterial casing acts as a barrier, safeguarding the virus-like particles from the harsh acidic environment of the fish's stomach. This shielding is essential for the vaccine's integrity and its ability to reach the intestinal tract.
Delivery to the Intestinal Tract

Following encapsulation, Lactococcus lactis facilitates the delivery of the protected vaccine particles into the fish's intestines. Once in the intestines, the vaccine particles are absorbed, prompting the fish's immune system to produce antibodies. This process is vital because it ensures that the vaccine components are available to stimulate immunity at the appropriate site within the fish's digestive system.
Enhanced Immune Response and Survival Rates

The protection offered by Lactococcus lactis significantly enhances the vaccine's efficacy. Studies have shown that the encapsulated vaccine doubles antibody levels compared to unprotected particles. Furthermore, in trials involving grouper, vaccinated fish exhibited survival rates of approximately 95 per cent, a substantial improvement over the 60 per cent survival rate observed in unvaccinated fish, demonstrating the critical role of this protective delivery system.

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How does Lactococcus lactis protect the oral vaccine from digestion?

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