An experimental nasal vaccine has been presented that, in tests on mice, showed protection against several types of threats at once — viruses, bacteria and allergens. It activates not only adaptive but also innate immunity, combining targeted and more universal protection.
The product, called GLA-3M-052-LS+OVA, is delivered through the nose as a spray. It mimics signals that help immune cells in the lungs stay active for a long time. The formulation uses a safe egg protein that helps attract immune cells into the respiratory tract.
In the experiments, the mice received three doses over three weeks. After that, they showed protection against SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses, as well as against the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Acinetobacter baumannii. At the same time, the animals had a reduced response to house dust allergens. The protective effect lasted for at least three months, and the infections were noticeably milder than in unvaccinated mice.
The main novelty of the development is that the scientists tried to deliberately strengthen universal immune defense mechanisms in the airways. Human clinical trials lie ahead. We will be waiting for the results with interest!
