219k views
5 votes
What is an example of a vaccine that is created using DNA cloning?

User Bopsi
by
7.6k points

1 Answer

4 votes

Final answer:

The hepatitis B vaccine is a prominent example of a vaccine developed through DNA cloning, where yeast is used to produce an antigenic protein that prompts an immune response in humans.

Step-by-step explanation:

An example of a vaccine created using DNA cloning technologies is the hepatitis B vaccine. This vaccine is made by inserting a gene encoding the hepatitis B surface antigen into yeast. The yeast culture then produces the hepatitis B antigen, which is then purified and used as the vaccine. Despite not containing the actual hepatitis B virus, the presence of the antigenic protein in the vaccine stimulates the human immune system to produce protective antibodies against hepatitis B.

Another notable mention is the DNA vaccine against West Nile virus approved for use in horses in the United States, and the DNA vaccine for fish that protects against infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus in Canada. DNA vaccines are a powerful tool in modern medicine, and they hold the potential to revolutionize the way we approach immunization against various diseases.

User Bobbybee
by
8.1k points