Researchers from the University of Arizona have successfully transformed tobacco plants into factories for producing a vaccine against the plague. This vaccine has generated a strong immune response in guinea pigs.
This result is considered a significant milestone in the effort to develop a vaccine for humans in the future.
 |
Yersinia pestis bacteria and tobacco leaves (Photo: VietNamNet) |
The plague is caused by a rod-shaped bacterium known as Yersinia pestis, which is no longer responsible for large-scale outbreaks as it was in the past. However, experts have identified some strains that are resistant to antibiotics, and they are particularly concerned about this bacterium being used as a biological weapon.
Additionally, according to estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 1,000 to 3,000 outbreaks occur worldwide each year. This is due to humans coming into contact with rodents that carry fleas infected with Yersinia pestis.
According to Luca Santi, the lead researcher, the best way to prevent infection is to develop a new vaccine. Existing vaccines are not widely used due to high rates of adverse reactions and side effects.
For this reason, the research team genetically modified tobacco plants to quickly produce high levels of stable antigens. After being purified and injected into guinea pigs, these antigens generated an immune response against the plague.
Minh Sơn (According to Science)
