Flossing Emerges as Innovative Method for Vaccine Delivery

Recent research from North Carolina State University suggests that dental floss may play a groundbreaking role in vaccine administration. The study reveals that targeting a specific type of gum tissue, known as the junctional epithelium, could enhance immunity at the entry points of various infections, including influenza and COVID-19.

The research demonstrates that using dental floss to deliver a flu vaccine to mice resulted in a robust immune response, outperforming traditional oral delivery methods and matching the effectiveness of nasal vaccines, but without their associated risks. This innovative approach also proved effective with mRNA and protein-based vaccines.

Understanding the Junctional Epithelium

Lead researcher Harvinder Singh Gill emphasized the importance of mucosal surfaces in immune defense. These surfaces serve as primary entry points for pathogens. Gill noted, “When a vaccine is given by injection, antibodies are primarily produced in the bloodstream, with relatively few generated at mucosal surfaces. However, delivering a vaccine via mucosal surfaces stimulates a broader immune response.”

The junctional epithelium, located at the base of the gum between teeth, is notably different from other epithelial tissues. Unlike most epithelial tissues, which have robust barriers to protect against pathogens, this thin layer lacks those features. As a result, it can effectively release immune cells to combat bacteria, which are found in saliva and within the gum pockets.

To test the viability of this new delivery method, researchers applied vaccines to unwaxed dental floss and then used it to floss the teeth of laboratory mice. They compared the antibody production in mice that received a peptide flu vaccine via the junctional epithelium, a nasal spray, and sublingual (under the tongue) administration. The results showed that flossing the vaccine into the junctional epithelium produced significantly higher antibody responses on mucosal surfaces than the other methods.

Potential for Future Vaccine Development

The research team also explored whether the junctional epithelium method could be effective for three other major classes of vaccines: proteins, inactivated viruses, and mRNA. In each case, the junctional epithelium technique resulted in strong antibody responses in both the bloodstream and mucosal surfaces.

Interestingly, the study found that the immune response remained consistent regardless of whether the mice consumed food or water immediately after flossing with the vaccine. This could simplify the administration process in clinical settings.

Despite these promising findings, several questions remain before this flossing technique can transition into clinical use. Researchers acknowledge the need for further studies to explore potential challenges and optimize the method for human application.

The study, titled “Floss-based vaccination targets the gingival sulcus for mucosal and systemic immunization,” is published in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering. As the field of vaccine technology evolves, the implications of this research could lead to significant advancements in how vaccines are administered, making the process safer and more effective for patients worldwide.