Enhanced transdermal-immunization with diptheria-toxoid using local hyperthermia

Abstract

In this study we have investigated how mild local hyperthermia could be used for transdermal-immunization. Mild hyperthermia is found unique in many ways. It activates the immune system and it also results in higher mass transport of high molecular weight molecules and nanometer size quantum dots labeled antigens across the skin in experimental animals. Hyperthermia increases the expression of co-stimulatory molecules such as CD80 and CD86. Mice transdermally immunized with diphtheria toxoid, without any adjuvant or penetration enhancing reagent but under the conditions of local hyperthermia generate an antibody response. In the memory recall assay, the splenocytes of hyperthermia enhanced transdermal-immunized mice undergo proliferation, when exposed to diphtheria toxoid. Comparable response was generated when mice were immunized with diphtheria toxoid by hyperthermia enhanced transdermal route or by conventional inter-muscular injection. Hyperthermia enhanced transdermal-immunization procedure is likely to have higher compliance as it does not cause any pain or visible damage to the skin.