Engineers transform dental floss into needle free vaccine

Researchers have innovated a needle-free flu vaccine using dental floss coated with inactive flu virus, targeting the permeable gingival sulcus in mice gums. The floss, delivering 75% of vaccine proteins effectively, triggered robust immune responses, including elevated antibodies in lungs, noses, and bone marrow.

Flossed mice, vaccinated over 28 days, survived lethal flu virus exposure, unlike unvaccinated mice, which all died. The approach produced systemic immunity, with T cells and larger lymph nodes observed. Human tests showed 60% dye delivery via floss, suggesting potential for vaccine application.

Volunteers favored floss-based vaccines over injections. However, experts call for clinical trials to confirm efficacy, especially in humans with gum disease. The method could redefine vaccine delivery, potentially integrating with dental visits.