Genetically Modified Lactic Acid Bacteria: a Promising Mucosal Delivery Vector for Vaccines.

2025-07-31
Probiotics and antimicrobial proteins 18(2)

PubMed: 40742520
DOI: 10.1007/s12602-025-10667-3

Study Design

Type: Review
Methods: This review highlights the mechanisms underlying gmLAB-based mucosal vaccine delivery, current advancements, challenges, and prospects in recombinant mucosal vaccines.

Rigorous Journal

The advent of mucosal vaccines that target the primary entry points of many pathogens has revolutionized the field of immunology. Genetically modified lactic acid bacteria (gmLAB), which include genera such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have emerged as promising vectors for delivering antigens to mucosal surfaces. These gram-positive, non-pathogenic microorganisms exhibit inherent probiotic properties, can survive through the gastrointestinal tract, and efficiently interact with the host immune system. Advances in genetic engineering have enabled the expression of a wide range of antigens in gmLAB that promote systemic and mucosal immunity. Studies have demonstrated that gmLAB-based mucosal vaccines can elicit both mucosal and systemic immune responses, providing protective immunity against specific pathogenic infections. In addition, gmLAB vectors offer good safety profiles, stability, and cost-effective production compared to traditional vaccine platforms. Recent studies demonstrated the potential of LAB vaccines in preventing infections caused by viral, bacterial, and parasitic pathogens and in immunotherapy for treating allergies and cancers. This review highlights the mechanisms underlying gmLAB-based mucosal vaccine delivery, current advancements, challenges, and prospects in recombinant mucosal vaccines.

Research Insights

Supplement	Dose	Health Outcome	Effect Type	Effect Size	Source
Lactobacillus paracasei HA-196	—	Improved Gut Health	Beneficial	Small	View source Lactobacillus paracasei HA-196 has been shown to improve overall gut health and digestive function.