Liposomes as Oral Adjuvants

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Abstract
Studies in both humans and experimental animals have provided evidence for the existence of a common mucosal immune system, whereby oral administration of antigen results in the appearance of IgA antibodies in various external secretions (reviewed by Mestecky and McGhee 1987). IgA antibodies provide the primary defense mechanism against infections which involve the mucosal surfaces. Therefore, by better understanding the mechanisms involved in the common mucosal immune system and properties of oral vaccines important in inducing mucosal immune responses, we have the potential to protect the host against a variety of infectious diseases. In this brief review, we discuss factors important in developing both effective and safe oral vaccines. Emphasis will be placed on the recent approaches we have taken in the development of an oral vaccine, including the usefulness of liposomes as antigen carriers and as adjuvants, for the induction of a mucosal immune response protective against the infectious oral disease dental caries, in which the principal etiologic agent is Streptococcus mutans (reviewed by McGhee and Michalek 1981).