Bacterial ghosts and their potential future applications-A mini review

Abstract

Bacterial ghosts system represents an emerging novel platform for antigens, nucleic acids and drug delivery. Bacterial ghosts are non-living Gram-negative bacterial cell envelopes devoid of cytoplasmic contents while maintaining their structural and morphological properties of native bacterial cells including surface antigens and bio-adhesive properties. They are generally produced by PhiX174 protein E-mediated lysis of Gram-negative bacteria. The intrinsic adjuvant properties of bacterial ghost preparations enhance immune responses against envelope bound antigens, including T-cell activation and mucosal immunity. These particles have envisaged both medical and veterinary applications for vaccination and treatment of various infectious diseases and tumors. The advantages of bacterial ghosts include the simplicity of the production method, safety, independence from the cold chain, and their intrinsic cellular and tissue tropic abilities.