RADS Journal of Biological Research & Applied Science (Aug 2025)
Review Review Review: Protein Subunit and DNA Vaccines Key Research, Development & Future Directions
Abstract
Objective To analyze the advancements, difficulties, and potential of DNA and protein subunit vaccines, with an emphasis on manufacturing capabilities, safety, and effectiveness, and to gauge their influence on upcoming vaccine studies. Background Purified pathogen fragments are used in protein subunit vaccines to boost immunity, whereas DNA vaccines use genetic material encoding antigens to trigger immune responses. Both offer unique opportunities and problems, but they have shown potential, especially during the COVID-19 epidemic. Methods A thorough literature review was carried out, with an emphasis on current research, clinical trials, and technical developments pertaining to DNA and protein subunit vaccines. Relevance, technique, and field influence were taken into consideration when choosing key papers. Articles were selected based on information on current advancements and potential future prospectives. Results The effectiveness of protein subunit vaccines (such Novavax's COVID-19 vaccine) has increased due to developments in adjuvants, protein expression, and stability. Scaling up manufacturing and high production costs are challenges. The advantages of DNA vaccines include improved efficacy because of developments in delivery technologies, such as lipid nanoparticles, and rapid development and economical manufacture (e.g., ZyCoV-D). Activating immunological responses, guaranteeing efficient DNA delivery, and overcoming regulatory obstacles are among the difficulties. DNA vaccines need more thorough testing, while protein subunit vaccinations have a strong safety record. Conclusion Both vaccination platforms offer unique benefits. Protein subunit vaccines offer proven production techniques and superior safety, whereas DNA vaccines are developed and scaled quickly. To effectively combat infectious diseases, future development necessitates overcoming current obstacles, improving delivery methods, and investigating combination techniques. Further novel research, continuous studies and clinical trials are crucial to maximize their potential in international immunization campaigns.
