Plant Viruses Deliver Next-Gen Vaccines
The cage-like structure of plant viruses like cowpea mosaic virus works perfectly for delivering immune-training particles. A vaccine using this technology reduced endocarditis risk in pacemaker users by stimulating targeted immune responses. UC San Diego developed this approach, now in phase II trials. The technique could prevent many types of heart infections. These harmless plant viruses carry immune-stimulating material directly to cells, teaching the body to recognize specific bacterial threats.